Top Tips for Understanding the Social Model of Disability

This July series is inspired by Disability Pride Month and focuses on practical ways to turn inclusion into action. The journey across the month is: Accessibility → Understanding → Belonging → Action → Connection.

People are disabled not by their impairments, but by the barriers around them.
Author Unknown

Why This Matters

Close-up of a magnifying glass on a blue surface, ideal for search and exploration themes.

The Social Model helps us focus on removing barriers rather than changing people.

Introduction

The Social Model encourages us to examine the environment around the person.

Real-Life Example

An organisation moved meetings to an accessible venue rather than expecting people to adapt.

Mike’s Reflection

We should improve systems to work for people, not expect people to fit systems.

This Week’s Top Tips

Noticing

Notice barriers
Listen to lived experience
Observe environments

Understanding

Consider physical barriers
Consider communication barriers
Consider attitudes

Taking Action

Involve people
Challenge assumptions
Focus on change

A Gentle Reminder

Often the barrier is not the person.

July Challenge

Identify one barrier and discuss solutions.

Over to You

What barriers might others experience?

Remember: Small Actions can Create Big Opportunities.

Over to You:
Release Your Potential

“Learning is a treasure that follows its owner everywhere”.

These are my thoughts and perspectives (I’m not necessarily right or wrong, simply starting a conversation).

So, what about your thoughts? What is YOUR perspective?

Do any of these things ring true for you and can you picture yourself putting these tips into action?
What would it look, sound and feel like if you put some of these tips into action – for you and others?
What barriers might you come against when putting these tips/ideas into action? How might you overcome them?
Who could give you support and how?
Have you tried these tips and ideas out and, if so, what have you learned?