Disability Together, in collaboration with We Are The People and Bath Spa University, has published new research exploring the lived experience of Disabled people.
Funded by the Wellcome Trust, the research set out to challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about disability by capturing authentic stories of Disabled people and sharing achievement, success and joy.
The organisations hope this research will serve as a positive insight into the richness of Disabled people’s lives.
Carried out over 10 months, the research presents lived experiences and personal reflections from a diverse range of D/deaf and Disabled people. It provides an insight into what it means to be Disabled and living a full, rich and joyful life. The golden thread that emerged during the research was:
“Yes, barriers exist. We know that better than most, but present is Disability Joy and it’s bigger than you might think. It’s overcoming adversity and finding solutions. It’s peer support, it’s giving and receiving help. Being in control of your own life. Embracing difference. Celebrating our diverse community.”
The research explores the richness of individual and collective experiences, including what people do, how people spend their time, the meaningful contribution Disabled people bring to work and volunteering, and how Disabled people navigate life, innovate and support others. One of the biggest sources of pride came from being able to help others by sharing skills acquired through overcoming life’s barriers themselves.
“I’m very proud that I can pass on knowledge to other people… to get the help they needed and that’s what it’s about. If you don’t know these things, then I want to pass it on. To be able to share… my experiences, my lived experience.”
Dr Theo Blackmore, Senior Research Fellow, said: “This project potentially could start a whole new field of research in relation to Disability Joy. It is incredibly important to say that Disabled people are not just a set of problems to be solved, but also that we lead meaningful and impactful lives.”
Disability Together Deputy CEO Megan Kenneally-Stone added: “This research has provided the opportunity to amplify the lesser heard voices. To challenge the often negative stereotypes and deficit-based narratives surrounding disability. We want to share these stories with as many people as possible, to reiterate the value, contribution and joy within Disabled people’s lives.”
A video that highlights some of the stories and the full research report is available at www.disabilitytogether.org.uk/research.
