Events and Displays
Orpheus, Battersea Arts Centre 5th to 30th December
Orpheus, Battersea Arts Centre
London | 5-30 Dec | £15 – £35, cabaret table packages from £40 Littlre Bulb Theatre
Prepare to be transported to 1930s Paris where legendary musician, Django Reinhardt, has been cast as the lead in a new production of Orpheus. Set to a fabulous live score of hot club jazz, opera and French chanson, Orpheus is a musical re-imaging of the epic Greek myth.
York 24th November to 7th Decemember 2018
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
Programme for United Nations International Day of People with Disabilities 24th November to 7th December 2018 – Front Cover by Alfie Fox – showing flight of stairs with no entry, access, education written on them
Printed programmes are available from locations including York Explore (central library) and York CVS, Priory St Centre, Priory St, YO1 6ET – as well as from the organisers.
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NOVEMBER
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The following four FREE events – all with a focus on disability – are part of YORights 2018, York Human Rights Festival which has three days of human-rights themed events to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
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EVENT
Ask York: Disability and Discrimination
WHEN
Saturday 17 November 14:30 – 16:00 (to be aired on the evening of Monday 3 December, exact timing to be announced)
WHERE
John Cooper Studio, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
COST
FREE: book here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ask-york-disability-and-discrimination-tickets-50846068961
DESCRIPTION
Two Rivers Community Radio will be recording their panel show “Ask York” as part of the 2018 YORights festival celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). At this event, the panel will discuss disability and discrimination, with questions from the audience and opportunity for a lively discussion. The show is being recorded live and will be aired on Monday 3 December. (Article 1 – Right to Equality)
ACCESS
The theatre has a hearing loop; wheelchair access is via a lift.
ORGANISER
York Human Rights City Network – www.yorkhumanrights.org; info@yorkhumanrights.org
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EVENT
The Silent Child
WHEN
Saturday 17 November 16:30 – 17:00
WHERE
John Cooper Studio, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
COST
FREE: book here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-silent-child-screening-for-yorights2018-tickets-51628714876
DESCRIPTION
Inspired by real life events and observing one of the loneliest disabilities and the avoidable struggles that deaf children face, The Silent Child centres around a profoundly deaf four-year-old girl of a middle-class family. She lives in a world of silence until a caring social worker teaches her the gift of communication. (Article 2 – Freedom from discrimination; Article 26 – Right to education)
ACCESS
The theatre has a hearing loop; wheelchair access is via a lift.
ORGANISER
York Human Rights City Network – www.yorkhumanrights.org; info@yorkhumanrights.org
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EVENT
Once Upon a Parliament
WHEN
Saturday 17 November 19:00 – 20:00
WHERE
John Cooper Studio, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
COST
FREE: book here – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/once-upon-a-parliament-tickets-51268164460?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Once Seen Theatre Company normally charge £10/£7 for their performances, but are offering tickets free as part of the YORights Human Rights Festival. Donations very welcome.
DESCRIPTION
‘They all lived happily ever after’… but did they? The fairytale lifestyle that is often an aspiration is not always open to those with learning difficulties. Stories of voiceless damsels, cutting royalty and benefits balls, can help us understand how everyone, from government to neighbourhoods, are responsible for supporting adults with learning difficulties to achieve full citizenship.
ACCESS
The theatre has a hearing loop; wheelchair access is via a lift.
ORGANISER
Once Seen Theatre Company / York People First – http://www.yorkpeoplefirst.co.uk/
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EVENT
‘Sanctuary’ film followed by Q&A with director Len Collin
WHEN
Saturday 17 November 20:30 – 22:30
WHERE
John Cooper Studio, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
COST
FREE but book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sanctuary-followed-by-qa-with-director-len-collin-tickets-50846380894
DESCRIPTION
A special screening of the critically-acclaimed ‘Sanctuary’. Described by film critic Mark Kermode as “honest and heartfelt, performed with vitality and vigour”, it tells the heartwarming story of two young people with disabilities who want to be together but live in a world that wants to keep them apart. The film will be followed by an audience Q&A with director Len Collin, a prominent disability rights advocate. (Article 16 – Right to marriage; Article 2 – Freedom from discrimination)
ACCESS
The theatre has a hearing loop; wheelchair access is via a lift.
ORGANISER
York: Human Rights City Network – www.yorkhumanrights.org; info@yorkhumanrights.org
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EVENT
Eleanor Worthington Art Prize Exhibition
WHEN
between November 2018 and February 2019
WHERE
York Hospital (Main Corridor) Wigginton Road, York, YO31 8HE; AND Scarborough Hospital, Main Corridor: Woodlands Drive, Scarborough, YO12 6QL
COST
FREE
DESCRIPTION
York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Arts Team is exhibiting a collection of work submitted for the 2017 Eleanor Worthington Prize. The work is based on the theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with submissions from British and Italian students. Eleanor’s story inspired family and friends to raise public consciousness of the issue of disability through creation of the Eleanor Worthington Association.
ACCESS
Public access to hospitals, visit Trust website for details:
https://www.yorkhospitals.nhs.uk/our-hospitals/
ORGANISER
Arts Team, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust: art@york.nhs.uk; www.yorkhospitals.nhs.uk/exhibitions
And Eleanor Worthington Prize: https://www.premioeleanor.it/?Lan=EN
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EVENT
Singing for Fun
WHEN
20 November 10:30 to 12:00 (and every 3rd Tuesday of the month)
WHERE
York Blind and Partially Sighted Society, Rougier House, 5 Rougier Street, York, YO1 6HZ
COST
50p to cover refreshments. Please contact Claire Murphy, Activity Assistant Claire.Murphy@ybpss.org/ or telephone: 01904 636269 to book a place.
DESCRIPTION
Are you visually impaired and would love to sing with a group? Our monthly singing for fun session is open to anyone with a visual impairment.
ACCESS
Room has hearing loop; wheelchair accessible by a lift to first floor. Reception at ground floor level. Limited blue badge parking available. Please ring to check availability of a parking space.
ORGANISER
York Blind & Partially Sighted Society – https://ybpss.org/
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EVENT
Consultation over Blue Badge Parking in York
WHEN
November onwards
WHERE
Ongoing everywhere in York
COST
Free via email, or the price of a stamp
DESCRIPTION
As part of a security clampdown, new access restrictions to York centre from 5 November 2018 means no vehicular access to St Sampson’s Square from 10.30 to 17.00, 7 days a week, enforced by new bollards at junction of Church Street & St Sampson’s Square and at northern end of Coney Street (next to Mansion House). City of York Council is doing this through an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order so can be trialled for up to 18 months but made permanent by 6 months, if deemed ‘successful’. No additional places for Blue Badge holders have been made elsewhere.
ORGANISER
Comment on the facilities and the impact of the new restrictions by emailing citycentreaccess@york.gov.uk or writing to: City Centre Access Consultation, c/o Parking Services, City of York Council, West Offices, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GA. You may also wish to copy in your local councillor or Member of Parliament. Consultation is at https://www.york.gov.uk/CityCentreAccess
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GOALBALL TOURNAMENT – 24 Nov | 11.00-16.00 | Foss Sports Hall, York St. John University, YO31 7EX
£1 pp for intro training session, £ 5 per team in the tournament. Lunch & refreshments inc.
Local development charity International Service is hosting an all-abilities goalball tournament and taster session with GB Paralympic goalball player Georgie Bullen to raise awareness about disability stigma and promote inclusion.
Whether you’re a pro or you’ve never played before, register your team through the event page below to reserve a slot in the tournament.
Limited disabled parking is available on site; alternative public parking is available at Union Terrace, Monk Bar and Foss Bank car parks. The site is fully accessible.
International Service | 01904 647799
Book at: www.internationalservice.org.uk/Event/goalballtournament
contact@internationalservice.org.uk
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EVENT
Community Sparks – Inclusive Creative and Social Group
WHEN
Tuesday 27 November 10:30 – 12:15 (and every Tuesday)
WHERE
Door 84 Youth & Community Centre, 84 Lowther Street, York, YO31 7LX
COST
FIRST SESSION FREE then £4.00 (includes refreshments)
DESCRIPTION
Do you like craft, games, trips and socialising? Our sessions are fun and interactive in which you can try new activities in a safe and welcoming environment. We have lots of arty activities along with baking, bingo, pool, karaoke, sport and lots more. Come and join in and meet like minded people who enjoy getting creative, sharing ideas and making friends.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible with entrance ramp and accessible toilets. No on-site parking but plenty of parking bays adjacent where blue badge holders can park free. No hearing loop.
ORGANISER
DOOR 84 – www.door84.co.uk/communitysparks. York based charity supporting Youth & Community projects. The Community Sparks project has existed since 2012 supporting adults with additional needs. Contact: 01904 623177 communitysparks.door84@gmail.com/ for further information.
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EVENT
What is Sensory Support?
WHEN
Wednesday 28 November 10:00 – 15:00
WHERE
Wilberforce House, 49 North Moor Road, Huntington, York, YO32 9QN
COST
FREE but donations would be welcomed to support our work
DESCRIPTION
Wondering what Sensory Support is available? Visit Wilberforce Trust at their Head Office and see their specially built Hub and meet the Sensory Team. The Outreach Van will also be on site so that you can step on board and have a look around it and find out about our plans to reach isolated areas so that we can provide the residents with sensory support.
ACCESS
The building and Sensory Outreach van is wheelchair accessible. Limited free parking is available.
ORGANISER
The Wilberforce Trust – one of York’s oldest charities supporting people with sensory loss and other disabilities: Telephone: 01904 760037
www.wilberforcetrust.org.uk/
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EVENT
Community Sparks – Inclusive Disco
WHEN
Thursday 29 November 10:30 – 12:00 (and every Thursday)
WHERE
Door 84 Youth & Community Centre, 84 Lowther Street, York, YO31 7LX
COST
FIRST SESSION FREE then £3.50 (incl refreshments for you and your carer)
DESCRIPTION
Do you enjoy dancing to your favourite songs? Our inclusive disco plays music from all genres – requests are taken. Feel comfortable to express yourself and have fun! Dance with your friends and socialise in the café with refreshments.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible with entrance ramp and accessible toilets. No parking on site but plenty of parking bays adjacent where blue badge holders can park for free. No hearing loop.
ORGANISER
DOOR 84 – www.door84.co.uk/communitysparks. York based charity supporting Youth & Community projects. The Community Sparks project has existed since 2012 supporting adults with additional needs. Contact: 01904 623177 or email communitysparks.door84@gmail.com for further information.
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EVENT
Carers Rights Day
WHEN
Friday 30 November 9:30 – 14:30
WHERE
Priory Street Centre, Priory Street, York, YO1 6ET www.priorystreetcentre.org.uk/
COST
FREE – places are limited so please book via 01904 715490.
DESCRIPTION
An event for carers to talk with York’s two MPs in the morning (10-11.30) followed by lunch and a chocolate tasting workshop.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible; hearing loop; accessible toilets; some disabled parking.
ORGANISER
York Carers Centre – supporting unpaid carers who live or care for someone who lives in York. www.yorkcarerscentre.co.uk enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk Telephone: 01904 715490
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EVENT
The Friendship Group with a Musical Twist
WHEN
Friday 30 November 13:00 – 14:30 and every Friday
WHERE
Oaken Grove Community Centre, Reid Park, Haxby, York, YO32 3QW
COST
Suggested contribution £4 (£1 for support workers)
DESCRIPTION
Our friendship group welcomes everyone, especially those who would like
to share the pleasure of singing. We include people put off singing in
childhood, people who struggle with vocal and speech challenges such as
Parkinsons, Aphasia, MS and Dementia, and those who just never found
the right opportunity. Join us for lots of chat, lots of songs, tea, biscuits, poetry and a good laugh. A warm welcome awaits you! Carers and support workers also welcome.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible, with ample parking. No hearing loop.
ORGANISER
Song Box – bringing people together through shared music making and
creativity. Contact: Thea Jacob, founder, at tjsongbox@yahoo.co.uk / ( 07765 574 564, www.york-songbox.co.uk, Facebook and Twitter @songboxyork
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DECEMBER
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EVENT
Unite Community Day of Action Against Universal Credit
WHEN
Saturday 1 December 11:00 – 13:00
WHERE
Lower Parliament Street, York
COST
Free
DESCRIPTION
Unite Community has organised a national day of action against Universal Credit, the means tested benefit that is recognised as adversely affecting people with disabilities even more than other claimants. The York Unite Community branch is holding its second day of action against the benefit calling for it to be ‘stopped and scrapped’ due to the damage it is doing to all claimants but particularly those with disabilities. There will be a stall with advice and campaign leaflets and a petition to sign.
ACCESS
Level
ORGANISER
https://unitetheunion.org/campaigns/stop-universal-credit/ email: rose.ridley@unitetheunion.org
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EVENT
On Disability and Accessibility: An Afternoon of Film Screenings
WHEN
Saturday 1 December 14:00 onwards
WHERE
Department of Theatre, Film and Television, Campus East, University of York, Baird Lane, Heslington, York, YO10 5GB
COST
Free and open to all but registration is required. To book your free ticket please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/on-disability-and-accessibility-an-afternoon-of-film-screenings-tickets-51812126465
DESCRIPTION
Join us at the Department of Theatre, Film and Television (University of York) for an afternoon of film screenings. The films screened will include cutting edge work on accessibility and the concept of accessible filmmaking.
Confirmed films:
‘Shelf Life’ and ‘Pearl’ – Films created as part of the AHRC-funded Enhancing Audio Descripton Project
‘Come What May’ (Roland Spencer) – A documentary about parent-carers
‘The Accessible Film Project’ (Kate Dangerfield) – You can read more about her work here: https://blog.sense.org.uk/2017/03/accessible-film-project-mentors-equipment-sight-and-sound/#more-4219
Interview with researcher and practitioner Amelia Cavallo
‘Joining the Dots’ (Pablo Romero-Fresco)
If you require a wheelchair accessible space please get in touch with Mariana Lopez – mariana.lopez@york.ac.uk.
ACCESS
Cinema is hearing loop and wheelchair accessible but unfortunately due to the limited number of refuge points in case of fire, Health & Safety Officers have advised that only 6 wheelchair places are available! Please contact Mariana if you wish to book a wheelchair place or have any other access requirements you’d like to discuss. This interactive map – https://www.york.ac.uk/map/ – provides information on parking availability.
ORGANISER
Department of Theatre, Film and Television.
Contact: mariana.lopez@york.ac.uk
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EVENT
Disabled People’s Writing Workshop
WHEN
Sunday 2 December 13:00 – 15:00
WHERE
York Explore, Library Square, Museum Street, York, YO1 7DS
COST
Free
DESCRIPTION
Say Owt, York’s rowdiest spoken word and performance poetry organisation, team up with local poet Katherine Watson to lead a writing workshop with an optional performance element. Suitable for everyone, from curious beginners to seasoned scribblers. Open to anyone within the disabled umbrella, including chronically ill, mentally ill and neurodivergent people. Come along to spark some new ideas, or even a new hobby! Carers and guardians welcome.
ACCESS
York Explore has step-free access and accessible toilets. Limited free disabled parking is available. Please contact info@sayowt.co.uk if you have any access requirements or anything you’d like to discuss.
ORGANISER
Say Owt, York spoken word/poetry organisation. www.sayowt.co.uk; Info@sayowt.co.uk
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EVENT
Live video link with Urbino, Italy
WHEN
3 December 11:30 – 12:15 (doors open at 11:15)
WHERE
York Explore Library Learning Centre, Library Square, Museum Square, York, Y01 7DS
COST
FREE – to book a place, email arts@exploreyork.org.uk
DESCRIPTION
Live video link bringing together communities from York and Urbino, Italy to celebrate International Day of Disabled Persons 2018. Discussion and debate with this year’s and last year’s winners of the Eleanor Worthington Prize for Arts and Disabilities. The prize was set up by family and friends in memory of Eleanor Worthington, to raise awareness of the issue of disability.
ACCESS
York Explore has step-free access and accessible toilets. Limited free disabled parking is available.
ORGANISER
Explore York in partnership with Associazione Premio Eleanor Worthington: https://www.premioeleanor.it/?Lan=EN
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EVENT
Young Disabled Persons Disability Art Group
WHEN
Monday 3 December 18:00 to 20.00 and monthly
WHERE
York Explore Library, Library Square, Museum Square, York, Y01 7DS
COST
FREE – to let us know you are coming, email arts@exploreyork.org.uk
DESCRIPTION
Launch of York Disability Art Group at York Explore for young disabled people in the city. Working with professional artists, the group is an opportunity for young people to creatively express themselves through disability art, understand what disability art is and help profile issues relevant for young disabled people. Moving forward, this project will be supported and funded by Arts Council England.
ACCESS
York Explore has step-free access and accessible toilets. Limited free disabled parking is available.
ORGANISER
York Explore
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EVENT
Talking Point: Connect with adult social care-pop up event
WHEN
Monday 3 December 10:00 – 16:00
WHERE
Booking Hall, City of York Council, West Offices, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GA
COST
Free
DESCRIPTION
The way adult social care is provided in York has started to change. We are supporting people to feel more in control of their lives and able to achieve personal goals and outcomes, get involved in their communities and be as independent as possible. Come along to see us at West Offices to find out what we are doing and how you can get involved. Information and advice about support in York is also available.
ACCESS
· level access (on the ground floor)
· automatic doors
· British Sign Language (BSL) video interpreting service
· free Wi-Fi
· health and safety procedures
· height adjustable self-service desks
· portable hearing loops
· toilets and baby-changing facilities
ORGANISER
For more information email the Adult Social Care Future Focus team at future.focus@york.gov.uk Telephone: 01904 551550
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EVENT
Festive Musical Fun for Everyone
WHEN
Monday 3 December 10:30 – 11:45
WHERE
Barstow House, 5 St Benedict Road, Nunnery Lane, York, YO23 1YA
COST
£3
DESCRIPTION
This festive event will comprise a mix of songs, carols and other musical activities, delivered workshop-style to enable everyone to join in as much as possible. Hot drinks and mince pies will be served.
ACCESS
The event will take place in the main lounge at Barstow House independent living community. The venue is completely wheelchair-accessible but parking is extremely limited.
ORGANISER
Musical Connections, a York-based charity which enables adults who are older, vulnerable and at risk of social isolation to lead happier, healthier lives through participating in community music groups and choirs. Website http://www.musicalconnections.org.uk/ Telephone: 01904 373011
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EVENT
Ask York: Disability and Discrimination
WHEN
Monday 3 December. Airing of Two Rivers radio programme, recorded 17 November (see above). Exact timing of broadcast to be announced.
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EVENT
Community Sparks – Inclusive Creative and Social Group
WHEN
Tuesday 4 December 10:30 – 12:15 (and every Tuesday) at Door 84 Youth & Community Centre, 84 Lowther Street, York, YO31 7LX
SEE ENTRY ON 27 NOVEMBER FOR FULL DETAILS
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EVENT
The Effects of Changes to the Welfare Benefits System on Disabled People: Messages from Research, Practice and Personal Experience
WHEN
Tuesday 4 December 14:00 – 16:00
WHERE
Main Hall, Priory Street Centre, Priory Street, York, YO1 6ET www.priorystreetcentre.org.uk/
COST
FREE but eventbrite booking required – https://welfarebenefitschanges.eventbrite.com
DESCRIPTION
Seminar looking at the impact of changes to the welfare benefits system on disabled people and carers, including their mental health and ability to retain their independence. Presentations on:
· Research findings
· Findings from Citizens Advice York
· Personal experiences from disabled people and from carers.
For staff, commissioners and volunteers from statutory, voluntary and private sector organisations, elected members, and disabled people and their family members and carers.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible; hearing loop; accessible toilets; some disabled parking.
ORGANISER
York Human Rights City Network: www.yorkhumanrights.org;
York Independent Living Network: www.yiln.org.uk
Contact: Jane Phythian: jane@phythian.org.uk
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EVENT
Disabled People and Poverty
WHEN
Wednesday 5 December 12:00 – 13:00
WHERE
Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 40 Water End, York, YO30 6WP
COST
FREE but advance booking required via Sam Wright telephone 01904 735027
email: sam.wright@jrf.org.uk
DESCRIPTION
We are holding a seminar on the experience of ‘Disabled People and Poverty’. We have invited the Family Fund, the UK’s largest charity providing grants for families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people, to talk about their work. JRF speakers will also discuss the statistics behind disability and the relationship with poverty and how the Joseph Rowntree Foundation/Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust is working to support disabled people.
ACCESS
Meeting room is wheelchair accessible. Limited free parking available. Please contact Sam Wright to discuss access requirements.
ORGANISER
Joseph Rowntree Foundation/Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust – York-based independent social change organisation working to solve UK poverty. www.jrf.org.uk; www.jrht.org.uk
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EVENT
Community Sparks – Inclusive Disco
WHEN
Thursday 6 December 10:30 – 12:00 (and every Thursday) at Door 84 Youth & Community Centre, 84 Lowther Street, York, YO31 7LX (SEE ENTRY ON 29 NOVEMBER FOR FULL DETAILS)
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EVENT
Tang Hall SMART Inclusive Christmas Concert
WHEN
Thursday 6 December 13:30 – 15:30
WHERE
The Centre @ Burnholme, Mossdale Avenue, York, YO31 0HA
COST
FREE
DESCRIPTION
A lively blend of pop, rock, dance and rap, performed by participants from: SoundSMART, Inclusive Rock School, Satellite Class (teenagers dual registered at Applefields special school and Manor Academy), and United Response – all of whom attend one or more of Tang Hall SMART’s music clubs and classes aimed at people who have learning disabilities.
ACCESS
Wheelchair accessible – there is an ample free car park outside the centre
ORGANISER
Tang Hall SMART CIC – York based social enterprise that uses music and the creative arts as a vehicle for progress and recovery -www.tanghallsmart.com. Contact sue@tanghallsmart.com /
Telephone 07725 997 342
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EVENT
The Friendship Group with a Musical Twist
WHEN
7 December 13:00 – 14:30 (and every Friday)
WHERE
Oaken Grove Community Centre, Reid Park, Haxby, York, YO32 3QW (SEE ENTRY ON 30 NOVEMBER FOR FULL DETAILS)
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ADVANCE NOTICE OF A FOLLOW UP EVENT FROM THE SEMINAR IN OUR 2017 PROGRAMME ON ‘Direct Payments and PAs: Experiences, Issues and the Way Forward’
What: ‘Supporting the role of workplace personal assistant for people with physical and sensory impairments’
When: Tuesday 29 January 2019, 10:30 – 13:30
Where: University of York, Huntington Room, King’s Manor, Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EP.
Description: This is the launch of the ‘Taking on a personal assistant to support you at work’ guide (resources available here – https://workplacepersonalassistant.org/). Speakers from Disability Rights UK and Skills for Care as well as individuals reflecting on their experience of employing a PA and being a PA in the workplace. Come to find out more about the new Guide and meet others interested in working towards more accessible workplaces. The event is free. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supporting-the-role-of-workplace-personal-assistant-for-people-with-physical-or-sensory-impairments-tickets-47989705501
Funded with help from Hungate Community Fund, Two Ridings Community Foundation
Day of Action on Disability Equality in the Education System gets support across the country. Meeting very successful
A woman speaks from a platform with campaigning pictures pinned to the table she is sitting at
Union leads call for action on ‘silent massacre’ of disabled staff and students 0
BY JOHN PRING ON NOVEMBER 22, 2018 EDUCATION
Focus
Disabled teachers, lecturers and students have come together to call for sweeping changes to disability equality laws, and to highlight the barriers they face across the education sector.
A parliamentary meeting heard last night (Wednesday) how disabled people working in the education sector have been confronted by employers that are failing to provide them with accessible lecture and teaching spaces, denying them the right to disability leave – for disability-related absence from work – and delaying the provision of the reasonable adjustments they need and are entitled to under the Equality Act.
The event, hosted by Labour’s shadow minister for disabled people, Marsha de Cordova, was part of the University and College Union’s (UCU) first national day of action for disability equality in education.
Joanna Vanderhoof (pictured), co-chair of UNISON’s eastern region disabled members’ committee, described how she had been forced to go through an internal grievance procedure to secure the reasonable adjustments she needed from her university employer.
She said she had been “fundamentally failed” by her employer and as a result set up a disabled staff network and implemented workplace training on disability equality.
She said: “My employer broke current legislation in multiple areas yet I’m the one who has suffered and they face no repercussions whatsoever.”
She said she felt “utterly trapped because I can’t move to another job easily the way others can because I am disabled”.
Vanderhoof said that current legislation was “simply not sufficient”.
Disabled physics teacher Saeeda Bugtti said she had gone from being a highly-praised “poster girl” for her school to being asked if she wanted to take early retirement, after she became disabled.
She said: “As soon as I became disabled, I was too much of a problem.”
She echoed other speakers who had described how long it took for reasonable adjustments to be agreed and implemented by employers.
Another disabled member of staff said it had taken his “affluent” university – which had a surplus of £200 million – one-and-a-half years to provide him with a telephone with an amplifier.
He said the current legislation was “toothless” and there was a need to campaign for “a more effective Equality Act”.
Elane Heffernan, chair of UCU’s disabled members’ standing committee, who chaired the meeting, said: “We have to win this change. We cannot have this silent massacre of workers in education and students who cannot even get in through the door in the first place in terms of education.”
The meeting also heard how further education colleges and universities, motivated by increasing pressure to cut costs and increase revenue, were refusing to support disabled students and even attempting to force then out because it was too expensive to provide them with the support they needed.
Rachel O’Brien, disabled students’ officer for the NUS, said there was an increasing “marketisation” of further and higher education, as well as cuts to disabled students’ allowance in higher education and the introduction of education, health and care plans in further education, which had also led to cuts in support.
She said the introduction of “fitness to study” policies – assessing whether someone can continue as a student by looking at aspects of their life on campus such as health, behavior and attendance – implicitly or even explicitly targeted disabled students, such as those with mental health conditions, and could see them kicked off their courses.
She said: “It is no coincidence that this has come in at the same time as marketisation.
“Disabled students, to be frank, are expensive. Universities and colleges are being forced to be businesses.
“They have incentives to get rid of us, and they are trying to do it as fast as they possibly can.”
Among UCU’s demands are for legal rights to disability leave, a review of building regulations to ensure facilities are fully accessible, and strict time limits for reasonable adjustments to be provided for disabled staff.
Campaigners who have supported the UCU campaign – including other unions such as the National Education Union and Unison – also want a legal right for disabled people to access mainstream education and a reversal of cuts to special educational needs and disability (SEND) spending.
Michelle Daley, an inclusive education campaigner, said that disabled people should not be asking for “reasonable adjustments” but should be seeking “adjustments as a right” if that was what they needed to be able to function.
Simone Aspis, policy and campaigns coordinator for The Alliance for Inclusive Education, said: “Education funding has an impact on our right to access mainstream education.
“We are increasingly seeing attacks on provision of support and local authority support and disabled students’ allowance support in mainstream education.”
She said there was “more and more money being ploughed into segregated provision”, which amounted to an “ideological attack” on disabled people’s right to inclusive education.
Paula Peters, a member of the national steering group of Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), said: “It is so important that disabled people have role models but disabled staff within education settings are… under attack from workplace discrimination and worsening conditions at work, with experiences of hostile environments and isolation at work all far too commonplace. This is unacceptable.”
The idea for the day of action originally came from the union-funded National Disabled People’s Summit, which was held at the headquarters of the National Education Union in central London last November and was co-organised by the Reclaiming Our Futures Alliance.
The House of Commons event also coincided with the start of Disability History Month (see separate story).
Richard Rieser, founder of Disability History Month, told the day of action event that there was a need to “learn from the history” when it came to the increasing segregation of disabled children and young people, and he added: “We have the right to be treated with equality and challenge all the historic assumptions that have been made about us for many hundreds of years.”
The day saw UCU branches across the country organise activities to raise awareness about the issues faced by disabled staff and students, with support tweeted through the hashtag #IncludeUs.
One of those actions took place at the University of Liverpool, and involved disabled lecturer Dr Kay Inckle, who told Disability News Service in August how she had been forced to scour the campus for accessible rooms in which she could deliver her lectures.
She was even told that it might be considered “reasonable” for her to go down stairs on her bottom in some circumstances rather than be timetabled into ground floor or fully accessible rooms
Ben Lunn new disabled composer Piece T4 at DaDa Fest Liverpool 28th November
Whether it’s writing protest songs or using musical instruments as part of the rehabilitation process, music and disability have historically had a complicated relationship. As a foretaste of the theme of this years’ UK Disability History Month – exploring the work of great disabled musicians throughout history – Gemma Nash caught up with composer and conductor Ben Lunn to explore what it means to be a young, disabled music maker today.
black and white photo of a young male musiciaion holding a score, standing near a table with a violin sitting on it
Ben Lunn Image © British Music Collection
Lunn is Drake Music’s latest associate musician and has been composing from the age of 18. He studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and his work has been featured in many leading international festivals.
In November he will be performing his latest piece T-4 at DaDaFest in Liverpool. Commissioned by Drake Music at the start of this year, T-4 is a musical response to the theme ‘disability and the environment’ from a socio-political perspective.
Music and Austerity
Named after Aktion T4, Lunn’s composition draws parallels between what happened to disabled people during Nazi Germany and what is occurring now due to austerity.
In 1939 Adolf Hitler began Aktion T4, a policy framed as a euthanasia program to kill incurably ill, disabled and elderly people. While T4 was officially discontinued in 1941, killings continued secretly until Hitler’s defeat in 1945.
Using traditional musical instruments and technology, Lunn’s piece contrasts values that permitted the beginning of T4 with the values that have allowed the austerity policies of today. “A contrast that needs highlighting as the current human cost of austerity”, he says, “is shocking.” A recent study suggests that austerity policies have caused 120,000 deaths.
Within the piece Lunn uses the names of T4 victims he found in the Holocaust archive. He says “The interesting thing is with T4, even though the actions were truly horrific, the rhetoric wasn’t very in depth. All that was said was that these people are useless eaters, these are just people who are taking in more than they are giving out. Whereas the rhetoric around Jewish people was far more elaborate, such as plots to get rid of Germany via Judeo-Bolshevik ploys. A lot more had to be done to dehumanise Jewish people than disabled people. Arguably the same can be said for the way in which the current UK Government dehumanises disabled and elderly people.”
Music and Technology
Lunn brilliantly incorporates the Xbox Kinect motion sensor to trigger pre-recorded samples, including the names of the T4 victims. This sonic inclusion beautifully illustrates what it means to be a disabled music-maker in the world we live in – a world in which Fascism is on the rise and disabled people are suffering the brunt of the government’s cuts.
Adapted by Kris Gjerstad, the Kinect has 24 different conducting shapes and so Lunn can also change parameters like volume and panning as well as triggering samples. He found using the Kinect a really wonderful experience. Every single microscopic movement was making a response, enabling him to feel completely fused with the music. As a person with autism, this also helped him to feel more connected with the other musicians.
Music and Solidarity
Powerful, poignant and deeply moving, Lunn’s composition certainly represents the spirit of Disability History Month 2018 and our current struggle for justice. Just in the same way that Johnny Crescendo’s music encapsulated disability pride. Or Ian-Stanton lyrics captured disabled people’s fight for civil rights in the 1990s.
Alongside a superb selection of disabled composers, I look forward to Lunn performing T-4 at DaDaFest 2018 Destination Sound on Wednesday 28 November.
From Disability Arts Online http://disabilityarts.online/projects/disability-history-month/
Disability News Service Report on 19th November UKDHM launch
22 November 2018
Parliamentary event recognises disabled musicians who trumped oppression
A parliamentary event has recognised some of the many artists over the centuries whose talent as musicians has “trumped” the oppression they experienced as disabled people.
The event was held to launch the ninth annual Disability History Month, which this year focuses on disability and music and runs from 19 November to 22 December.
Richard Rieser, founder and coordinator of UK Disability History Month (UKDHM), listed many of the countless disabled musicians – many of whose impairments are not widely known – whose “creative impulse, the urge for self-expression, the need to connect to our fellow human beings” have trumped “the oppression we as disabled people face”.
Those he mentioned included Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Connie Boswell, Itzhak Perlman, Frederick Delius, Beethoven, Hector Berlioz, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Derek Paravicini, Robert Wyatt, and many blind, black musicians such as blues performers Blind Lemon Jefferson, Blind Willie McTell, and the Reverend Gary Davis, as well as Art Tatum, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder.
John McDonnell, Labour’s shadow chancellor, who sponsored the event, said Disability History Month allowed people to hear about the “hidden history” of disabled people that is never heard in the mainstream media.
He said: “It’s vitally important that we celebrate it, but at the same time it’s important to recognize the reality of the world as it now is.”
He pointed to the UN committee on the rights of persons with disabilities, which concluded two years ago that the government was guilty of grave and systematic violations of the rights of disabled people in the UK.
He said: “I believe the systematic abuse of human rights is also denying people the opportunity of being able to celebrate their cultures.”
And he said the nature of the curriculum and the pressure on school funding were depriving children of the ability to learn instruments or to take part in dance or drama.
He said it was difficult enough for some of the disabled musicians highlighted during the event to demonstrate their talent but it was now becoming even harder for disabled young people to follow in their footsteps.
He said: “I think we are actually going backwards at the moment. If you see what is happening on the ground, in community after community, in school after school, group after group that have lost their funding… it is an absolute scandal.
“So as well as celebrating the achievement I think we have to be straight with people as well and expose what’s actually happening.
“This is not a party political point, it’s a point about civilized behavior. I think we are going backwards rather than forwards.”
He said there was a need to “get bloody angry”.
McDonnell added: “We should not, in the fifth largest economy in the world, allow disabled people to be treated in this way.
“That anger should motivate us into further action.”
The event included highly-praised live performances from two disabled artists.
Tinuke Jonah performed her first single, Girls Like Me*, which is due to be released tomorrow (Friday), and which she said described how she had realised at the age of 18 that she no longer needed to apologise for her albinism.
John Kelly, playing the Kellycaster, an adapted guitar he created with the music, disability and technology charity Drake Music, sung two rights anthems.
The Kellycaster uses an electric guitar as an interface for computer software, allowing him to play both chords and notes.
Kelly said his guitar helped fight oppression, and he added: “We are fighting louder than ever and our voices need to be heard louder than ever.”
He quoted the disabled poet Allan Sutherland, who told him that when he was young, he “didn’t have any footprints to follow” as a disabled person.
“He said that disability art is about our culture, it’s about who we are.
“It gives us that confidence to fight the injustices and oppression we experience.”
The event also watched a video of one of the songs recorded by Lizzie Emeh, who was the first UK artist with a learning difficulty to release an album of original songs, Loud and Proud, in 2009.
She said that her next EP, Meds, which will be released in February, will be about the medication she takes and how it affects her.
She said: “I hate the word ‘normal’. Do you know why I hate it?
“To me, normal is like a cycle on a washing-machine. Do I look like a washing-machine to you?”
The launch event also heard part of an interview between Rieser and Deaf solo percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie, a longer version of which will be posted on the UKDHM website.
She described how taking off her hearing aids had allowed her to hear the drum she was playing through her body rather than her ears which “really allowed me to concentrate on the whole journey of that sound, the impact of the sound, the resonance of the sound.
“Taking care of how that sound ended was really important because before I was just bang, bang, bang…”
George McKay, professor of media studies at the University of East Anglia, and author of books on protest movements, jazz, and popular music and disability, pointed to the links between punk music and disability, through disabled musicians like Ian Dury and Ian Curtis.
He said the performance of Dury’s rights anthem Spasticus Autisticus at the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympics managed to “articulate an expression of difference and a celebration of difference”.
It was, he said, an “extraordinary punk moment”.
*The single will be available from tomorrow by searching for “Tinuke Jonah Girls Like Me” on all major music platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music and Google Play
York University Events in 2018 UKDHM
#PurpleLightUp Campaign – Monday 3rd December
The Purple Light Up campaign is an initiative introduced by Purple Space to raise awareness and celebrate the economic contribution of disabled employees.
In support of this initiative the University will be turning the Greg’s Place fountain purple and we would also like to invite colleagues across campus to decorate their offices purple for the day and to share pictures by tweeting them to @Equalityatyork
Science stars with a difference; can we learn from disability history?
Department of Chemistry with Robin Perutz and Julia Sarju Mandle. Role models are always important and that applies equally to disabled scientists. Robin and Julia will look at some of the disabled scientists who we celebrate in York and some who they have known personally. The discussion will raise issues of both physical and mental health. Robin was Disability Officer for Chemistry from 2006-2018 and has recently handed over the reins to Julia Sarju Mandle.
Date – Monday 3rd December
Time and venue – 13:00- 14:00, D/L006 -Derwent College
Tickets – No booking required
Inclusive Societies, Accessible Workplaces: Disabled People in the Public and Private Sphere
IGDC will be celebrating on the 6th December by hosting their seminar on ‘Inclusive Societies, Accessible Workplaces’ with @WFD_Democracy.
Date – Thursday 6 December
Time and venue – 12:00-13:30, ENV/105a/b – Environment Building
Tickets – For tickets and full details see this Eventbrite
INCLUDE Meeting
The University’s disabled staff network is holding its termly meeting on Thursday 6 December at 12:00. For more information about the meeting and how to get involved please contact equality@york.ac.uk.
Date – Thursday 6 December
Time and venue – 12:00-14:00
Tickets – equality@york.ac.uk
City-wide activities
To mark Disability History Month and International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDOPD) there will be various events taking place across the city.
For more information see the city-wide programme
Updated by the Equality and Diversity Office
Bristol Disability Equality Forum Disability History Month event Saturday 24th November 12.00-4pm, 2018
12.00 Registration
12.15 Welcome and Introduction to the day
12.30 Raquel Messenguer
12. 35 Beth Richards
1.05 Electric Storm Ensemble
1.35 Break for people to buy a drink or food in the café. There will also be a playlist of Disabled people’s music throughout the break.
2.05 Welcome back
2.10 Interview with Barrington Chambers about his experiences as a Disabled musician
2.35 Symbiosis
3.05 Speaker and performance by Mind Your Music
3.45 Final words
4.00 Event Ends
Please see overleaf for a little information on the performers and speakers.
Information on the performers and speakers.
Raquel Messenguer – Raquel is a local arts activist who will be talking about her work to encourage venues to be accessible to people who can’t sit or stand in the same position for long periods of time by enabling them to lie down.
Beth Richards – Beth is a researcher at the University of Bristol and active member of The Misfits, a local theatre and spoken word group of and for people with Learning Difficulties.
Electric Storm Ensemble – The Electric Storm Ensemble is a group of Disabled musicians supported by Drake Music. They are an inclusive band of musicians based in Bristol who play and write music together and perform live at venues around the city.
Barrington Chambers – Barrington is a local musician who plays in the Bristol Reggae Orchestra and has been involved in a number of other groups over the years.
Symbiosis – Symbiosis is an emerging local band of Disabled singers, song-writers and instrumentalists who will be performing acoustic music.
Mind Your Music – Mind Your Music is an inclusive music project aimed at enhancing the mental health of survivors of mental health difficulties and those in recovery from alcohol/drug addiction.
22nd November Oxford Brookes 7.00. Screening For Once in My Life
For Once in My Life
For Once In My Life is a documentary about a unique band of singers and musicians, and their journey to show the world the greatness—and killer soundtrack—within each of them. The band members have a wide range of mental and physical disabilities—as well as musical abilities that extend into ranges of pure genius. In a cinema verite style, the film explores the struggles and triumphs, and the healing power of music, as the band members’ unique talents are nurtured, to challenge the world’s perceptions.
“The Goodwill Band is a triumph of the spirit, a celebration of overcoming the odds, and a chance to rock out with the happiest musicians on the planet.”—The Miami Herald
“The sounds that emanate from the band are enough to bring an audience to its feet and tears to the eyes.”—The Sun-Sentinel
Oxford Brookes University
Gipsy Lane, OX3 0BP Oxford, Oxfordshire
3rd December Leeds Beckett University 12.45
Join us for a chat about how music impacts those with disabilities, and the representation of disability in film and media.
About this Event
Find us just down from Gaia Cafe, near Portland Shop – it will be signposted!
Leeds Beckett’s Disability Action Group will be marking UK Disability History Month on the 3rd December (International Day of Persons with Disabilities) by hosting a talk with two of our academics. This event aims to raise awareness of this, and bring to life the ways everyone, however our disability affects us, can use music to express ourselves.
Senior lecturer in the School of Cultural Studies and Humanities, Dr James McGrath, will be giving a talk on the role music, this year’s theme for UKDHM, plays for those with autism. For many on the autistic spectrum, heightened senses can often be overwhelming. James will be talking about how music, particularly repetitive music, can help control this experience.
Senior lecturer in the Carnegie School of Education, Dr Alison Wilde has also kindly agreed to do a talk on her recently published book entitled ‘Film, Comedy and Disability’, which looks at media representations of disability and inclusivity.
Light hospitality will be provided from 12:45pm.
DATE AND TIME
Mon, December 3, 2018
12:45 PM – 2:00 PM GMT
Add to Calendar
LOCATION
Leeds Beckett University
Calverley Building
City Campus
Leeds
LS1 3HE
View Map
Launch Event on 19th November: A great Success
John McDonnell addressing the launch
Tinuke Jonah singing ‘If You Leave’
Kiri Tunks President National Education Union
George McKay Professor of Media Studies University of East Anglia speaking about Punk,Rock and Disability Punk Rock and Disability, UKDMH launch talk
Lizzie Emeh Heart n Soul, speaking about being the first singer with a learning difficulty to release an album in 2009.
John Kelly Drake Music, performs 2 songs ‘Fit in a Box’ and ‘Winds of Change’with the Kellycaster
Dame Evelyn Glennie on film especially made by UKDHM https://youtu.be/MFR_4Jtsq_g
Sir Richard Stilgoe singer song writer and founder of the Orpheus Centre
Marsha de Cordova, MP Shadow Disability Minister
Richard Rieser Coordinator UKDHM and CEO World of Inclusion
UKDHM Launch RR
Some Guest
Kathy Lette and Jules
Danny Sapani, Susie Burrows, Samson Soboye, Saffron Burrows
Catherine Scarlett, Colleen Johnson, Gill Goodswen fron NEU
James Rose and Sir Richard Stilgoe
Nancy Maguire and Atiha Sen Gupta
Ethan Dunkley and Susie Burrows, Chair
My Sight Notts Choir singing their favourite songs in the presence of the Lord Mayor and Sheriff of Nottingham Monday 26 November 2018, 11.45am – 1.30pm Nottingham Council House Ballroom.
My Sight Nottinghamshire (Formerly NRSB) is celebrating something.
November 19 at 2:51 PM ·
We’d really love it if you could join our visually impaired choir at a free event to celebrate the launch of Disability History Month on Monday 26 November:
My Sight Notts Choir singing their favourite songs in the presence of the Lord Mayor and Sheriff of Nottingham
Monday 26 November 2018, 11.45am – 1.30pm
Nottingham Council House Ballroom.
Light refreshments provided.
To book your free place, please contact:
Annette.Molyneux@nottinghamcity.gov.uk / 0115 8762533
or Jeanner@mysightnotts.org.uk
Disability History Month runs from 22 November to 22 December every year. For more info about the events Nottingham City Council are organising: https://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/…/disability-history-mon…/
Day of Action for Disability Equality in Education, November 21st, nationally
Day of Action for Disability Equality in Education, November 21st, nationally
Access to Work, Action, All Posts Add comments
Our first day of action for Disabled Equality in Education will see meetings and events in colleges and universities, as well as schools where SEND cuts are destroying integrated education and will culminate in a meeting in parliament where we will bring forward demands for change.
Parliamentary meeting Wednesday November 21st House of Commons, Committee Room 10 from 5.30pm – 7pm. Some tickets are available for this event and we want as many disabled people as possible to attend:
please email DPAC or elaneheffernan@btinternet.com for tickets
Briefing Document from ALLFIE can be read here https://www.allfie.org.uk/
Cambridge
Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC) now has a Cambridgeshire and Essex branch! Come and join us for this protest about disability equality in work. We will be highlighting the government’s persecution of disabled people, reading the names of people who have died because of the horrific cuts and sanctions regime of the DWP, and agitating for real equality of access to work.
We are in solidarity with the UCU Day of Action for disability equality in education, for which events are taking place all day at the Cambridge University Students Union. If you’re going to one of the UCU events, come and join us at 2:30 in Market Square to take the message to the public.
Wednesday, 21 November 2018 from 14:30-16:30,
Market Square Cambridge
Cambridge.
https://www.facebook.com/events/304326216958523/?notif_t=plan_user_invited¬if_id=1542299943763655
Liverpool
Support Wed 21st national UCU Day of action for disability equality in education at Liverpool University
Come and join us
12.00 Rally University Square (Brownlow Hill)
We will be leafleting:
10.45 502 Teaching Block (Mount Pleasant next to Student Guild)
11.45 502 Teaching Block (Mount Pleasant next to Student Guild)
The UCU is taking action to challenge disability discrimination on campus and barriers faced by disabled people in education.
Our union branch recently passed a motion expressing concern about the disability discrimination on campus which is heavily impacting staff and students and demanding that the University complies with the Equality Act 2010 in relation to disability. The issues on campus were also reported in the media.
https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/union-backs-claims-of-widespread-discrimination-by-hostile-university/
Please come and show your support.
Please contact UCU equalities officer if you can help. Kirsteen.paton@liv.ac.uk
https://www.ucu.org.uk/disabilityequality?utm_source=lyr-ucu-members&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=members&utm_term=all&utm_content=Day+of+action+for+disability+equality+in+education:+21+November+2018
There will be a disabled member of staff speaking, Kirsten (our UCU equalities officer at Liverpool) and a message of solidarity from DPAC would be great.
We are leafleting the 502 teaching block because access is none existent or very difficult.
Penny Pepper at Albert Hall 17th December 9.30
As part of our Christmas Season, For Books’ Sake presents a late night Christmas special of That’s What She Said, a night of spoken word featuring the most incendiary, intoxicating women writers and performers around.
Shortlisted for Best Spoken Word Night in the UK at the 2017 Saboteur Awards, That’s What She Said showcases the best new writing and performance by women, featuring established and emerging authors with a mix of performance, poetry, storytelling, slam and more.
Expect fierce, feminist truth, fiction, politics and poetry from internationally renowned performance powerhouses.
Performers will include iconic author Salena Godden, poet, and writer for the Guardian and The Huffington Post Penny Pepper, award-winning literary hero Rosie Garland and artist and social activist Reece Lyons.
‘[The] biggest spoken word night in London for women’
Evening Standard
Supported by
BT
PERFORMERS FOOD AND DRINK OFFER
SECONDARY CONTENT
https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2018/thats-what-she-said-2/
Together Festival Newham
Together! 2018 Open Exhibition bringing together amateur, community, emerging and mid-career Disabled artists with a local connection. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford. Dates tbc.
Friday 23 November 2018 7-9pm: World Premiere of ‘When You See Me’ & Festival Opening This new drama, commissioned by us from our associate company Act Up! Newham, and written and directed by Trevor Lloyd, is inspired by the Circus 250 anniversary. Stratford Circus 1.
Sunday 25 November 2018 1-2pm: Paracarnival Parade Paracarnival brings Carnival to Newham with a procession of locally based Disabled artists and friends, fresh from winning the Judges’ Choice award at Hackney Carnival. Gallion’s Reach Shopping Park Beckton.
Saturday 1 December 2018 2-5pm: ‘VIBE: The Art of Transatlantic Inclusion’ A simultaneous symposium and exhibition about our two-year tactile sound project with Concordia University, Vibrafusion Lab Ontario and Disabled artists in Montréal. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford.
Monday 3 December 2018 11am-1pm: Reading for Human Rights. Join us on International Day of Disabled People to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights by reading from this and from the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Texts will be available in Easy Read and different languages including BSL. Beckton Globe Library.
Friday 7th (6-8pm), Saturday 8th (12-8pm) & Sunday 9th December 2018 (12-8pm): Together! 2018 Disability Film Festival Our international film festival brings together films of all budgets and genres, by Disabled filmmakers or featuring a central Disabled character. Old Town Hall Stratford. We also offer a two-day workshop for emerging Disabled filmmakers on 6 & 7 December – emailinfo@together2012.org.uk for further details.
Tuesday 11 December 2018 11am-2pm: Newham Disabled Reps Forum host a musical celebration of Disability History Month, including lunch and a raffle. Speakers include Disability History Month director Richard Rieser. St Mark’s Community Centre Beckton.
Friday 14 December 7-9pm: Together! Music Club and end-of-festival party Celebrate this year’s Disability History Month theme of music with an Open Mike night featuring Together! 2012 artists and friends, compered by Ju Gosling aka ju90. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford.
Equality Together, Bradford 30th November
Equality Together, Manningham Mills, Bradford are having a celebration of the Disability History Month on Friday 30th November. Tickets are £10 each, music, supper etc. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, get your ticket by phoning 01274 594173. Should be a great night, bar available!
‘Tragic But Brave’ Show with Johnny Crescendo Thursday 6th December 17.30
Tragic But Brave’ Show with Johnny Crescendo
Thursday 6 December 17.30 – 18.45 in Gulbenkian Café
(Free to attend, book via GULBENKIAN BOX OFFICE)
The ground breaking “Tragic but Brave” show is back after 25 years! Featuring a rare live performance by Disability Legend singer songwriter and activist Johnny Crescendo along with Comedienne Wanda Barbara and singer song writer Dennis Queen. The Tragic but Brave show was a pioneering touring troupe bringing disability arts to audiences across the globe. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see them one more time!
There is free parking after 5pm anywhere on the Canterbury campus: https://www.kent.ac.uk/transport/maps/parking-map.pdf
For further information please contact us at UKDisabilityHistoryMonth@kent.ac.uk, or follow @UniKentSSW on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for up to date event information. #UKDHM2018.
Tuesday 27th November Mike Oliver from Borstal Boy to University Professor
Kicking the Doors Down: From Borstal Boy to University Professor’ – A documentary film about Professor Mike Oliver
Tuesday 27 November 18.00 in Darwin Conference Suites, tea & coffee will be available from 5.15pm.
(Free to attend, please REGISTER HERE MIKE OLIVER FILM)
Professor Oliver, an academic, author and disability rights activist, tells his story in a documentary film made by the University of Kent detailing his career and impressions of studying, teaching and returning to the University more recently. Rachel O’Brien, National Union of Students’ Disabled Students’ Officer, will also share some reflections on challenges faced by disabled students in 21st century Britain. The 30 minute film will be followed by a Q&A and light buffet & wine reception.
There is free parking after 5pm anywhere on the Canterbury campus: https://www.kent.ac.uk/transport/maps/parking-map.pdf
Manchester Disability History Rocks! 3rd December 2018, 12-4.30pm
Manchester Disability History Rocks!
3rd December 2018, 12-4.30pm
FREE Public drop in Event, Manchester Central Library, ground floor, performance space
A showcase of music and creativity by disabled artists and activists from Manchester to celebrate International Day of Disabled People and kick off UK Disability History Month.
Including performances by Manchester’s very own Bee Vocal Choir and famed disability singer/songwriter Johnny Crescendo.
Featuring a mix of Living History interactive characters, comedy, musical performances, plus an exhibition and talk by GM Coalition of Disabled People demonstrating how music was used as a catalyst for change in the disability rights movement.
This is a show worthy of Manchester’s activist and artistic roots. Look out for the Town Hall purple light up, in honour of International Day of Disabled People.
Show created and delivered in partnership with, Manchester City Council, GM Coalition of Disabled People, Manchester Central Library and DANC MANC (Disabled Artists Networking Community)
Manchester Disability History Rocks Event Programme FINAL 22112018
Together Festival Newham Contribution to UKDHM 2018
Together! 2018 Open Exhibition bringing together amateur, community, emerging and mid-career Disabled artists with a local connection. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford. Dates tbc.
Friday 23 November 2018 7-9pm: World Premiere of ‘When You See Me’ & Festival Opening This new drama, commissioned by us from our associate company Act Up! Newham, and written and directed by Trevor Lloyd, is inspired by the Circus 250 anniversary. Stratford Circus 1.
Sunday 25 November 2018 1-2pm: Paracarnival Parade Paracarnival brings Carnival to Newham with a procession of locally based Disabled artists and friends, fresh from winning the Judges’ Choice award at Hackney Carnival. Gallion’s Reach Shopping Park Beckton.
Saturday 1 December 2018 2-5pm: ‘VIBE: The Art of Transatlantic Inclusion’ A simultaneous symposium and exhibition about our two-year tactile sound project with Concordia University, Vibrafusion Lab Ontario and Disabled artists in Montréal. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford.
Monday 3 December 2018 11am-1pm: Reading for Human Rights. Join us on International Day of Disabled People to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights by reading from this and from the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Texts will be available in Easy Read and different languages including BSL. Beckton Globe Library.
Friday 7th (6-8pm), Saturday 8th (12-8pm) & Sunday 9th December 2018 (12-8pm): Together! 2018 Disability Film Festival Our international film festival brings together films of all budgets and genres, by Disabled filmmakers or featuring a central Disabled character. Old Town Hall Stratford. We also offer a two-day workshop for emerging Disabled filmmakers on 6 & 7 December – emailinfo@together2012.org.uk for further details.
Tuesday 11 December 2018 11am-2pm: Newham Disabled Reps Forum host a musical celebration of Disability History Month, including lunch and a raffle. Speakers include Disability History Month director Richard Rieser. St Mark’s Community Centre Beckton.
Friday 14 December 7-9pm: Together! Music Club and end-of-festival party Celebrate this year’s Disability History Month theme of music with an Open Mike night featuring Together! 2012 artists and friends, compered by Ju Gosling aka ju90. Vicarage Lane Community Centre Stratford.
Contact Together! 2012 C.I.C.
Disability Arts, Culture and Human Rights
ju@together2012.org.uk / 07973 252751
www.together2012.org.uk
Destination Sound 7.00 Wednesday 21st November, Bluecoat, Liverpool
Destination Sound – A platform for new music celebrating the talent and creativity of Disabled musicians. Featuring compositions by Ben Lunn, Siobhan Dyson, Lucy Hale, Rylan Gleave, Sonia Allori, Kris Halpin and Claire Johnston. 7:00pm Wednesday 28 November, Bluecoat, Liverpool.
Cutter // Nash at The Space In-Between Metal, Liverpool, 21 November 2018.
Cutter // Nash at The Space In-Between Metal, Liverpool, 21 November 2018.
Fusing their shared interests in non-normative bodies, voices and queerness, Cutter // Nash create eerie and seductive live soundscapes using voices, synthesisers, DAWs and hacked controllers
UKDHM Supports the Day of Action on Wednesday November 21st Against Disability Discrimination in Education
UKDHM supports the Day of Action Against Disability Discrimination in Education. We are facing record cuts backs and quasi- privatisation in education which is leading to increasing disability discrimination angainst students and staff. This attack on disabled people’s rights is of historic proportions and is moving disability equality and inclusion backwards. For more arguments on this see http://worldofinclusion.com/blog/
Build for the Day of Action final 1
Build for the Day of Action
Against Disability Discrimination in the Education System Wednesday 21st November 2018
There are over 2 million disabled students attending nursery, school, colleges and universities in England and at least 150,000 Disabled Education Staff (15%).
The promise of the Equality Act to promote Disability Equality and Protect from Disability Discrimination, provide Reasonable Adjustments and Access are increasingly being ignored throughout the Education System. Disabled staff and students are put at a substantial disadvantage by a climate of fear, league tables, ignorance and cutbacks forced by Government policies and underfunding of the sector. The UK Government has been heavily criticised by the United Nations for ‘grave and systematic violations’ of disabled people’s rights including in education. https://www.theguardian.com/society/2017/aug/31/un-panel-criticises-uk-failure-to-uphold-disabled-peoples-rights
Budget cuts of around 9% in real terms are forcing schools to make difficult choices cutting support staff especially teaching assistants and mentors and leading to larger classes. This makes meeting the needs of students with SEND more difficult. Higher needs funding has not kept up with demand. Rigid policies in behaviour, admissions, exclusions and bullying are discriminating against disabled students. Tighter budgets and the breaking up of the maintained school sector are making it difficult for disabled staff to receive reasonable adjustments, especially staff acquiring impairments from high levels of workload stress and harassment. This leads to wasteful and discriminatory dismissal. A similar situation is occurring in both Further and Higher Education.
Staff, students and parents should plan their contribution on 21st November. These will include:-
- Organising a school/college union/staff meeting or a lunchtime get together to discuss issues
- Protesting for adjustments and accessible buildings
- Showing a film on disabled people’s activism
- Sending all members info on the Equality Act provisions
- Lively lobbies…
- Assemblies of staff and students to raise issues
- Contacting parents to leaflet all parents/students after school
- Using social media, including a Thunderclap e-message at 1.00 to Damien Hinds, Sec. of State
- Putting pressure on Government/politicians to amend legislation and improve funding
- Creating photo opportunities (such as holding placards/banners) for local press
- Sending a Rep. to Parliamentary meeting at 5.00 that evening (ticket only from supporting organisations) contact rlrieser@gmail.com by 9th November to RSVP.
Called for by disabled educationists, students and parents of disabled children at the Disability Summit (November 2017). Promoted by the University and College Union and supported by National Education Union, Alliance for Inclusive Education, Disability History Month, Disabled People Against the Cuts, National Union of Students and the TUC Disabled Workers Conference.
UKDHM 2018 Launch Great Success.
Launch UKDHM running orderLaunch UKDHM running order
Professor George McKay speaking on Punk Rock and DisabilityPunk Rock and Disability, UKDMH launch talk
Tinuke Jonah singing her new song If you Leave
Kiri Tunks President National Education Union
John Kelly representing Drake Music performing Fit in a Box weith Kellycaster
Marsha de Cordova MP shadow Minister Disabled People
Dame Evelyn Glennie UKDHM Film 8 minutes
Lizzie Emeh from Heart n Soul song Hard Love and talked about being first performer with a learning difficulty having a commercial EP made.
John McDonnell MP our host saying why he supports UKDHM and what must bwe done to bring equality into disabled people’s lives.
Sir Richard Stilgoe talking about using his royalties froim musicals he has written to fund Orheus Centre in his family home. Orpheus helps young sdisabled people learn to live independently and develop their creative talents.
Kathy Lette and actort son Jules(Holby City) at Launch
Danny Sapani, Susie Burrows Samson Soboye and Saffron Burrows at launch
