UK Disability History Month (UKDHM) is an annual event which began in 2010, spanning from mid-November into mid -December. Since its inception, UKDHM has become a huge success, running events, providing resources and giving a voice to disabled and differently-abled people across the UK.
Each year, there is a theme for the month, to highlight the many experiences of people with disabilities. This year’s theme is ‘Disability, Life and Death'.
Celebrating UK Disability History Month
Events
This UK Disability History Month, we're honouring the achievements, stories and activism of disabled people throughout history. It's a chance to learn from lived experience and make campus more inclusive - come and join us at an event over the next month:
We're launching with a panel discussion on Monday 24 November - this will feature UCL staff and students exploring the question: “What would radical accessibility look like at UCL?”. You can reserve your spot now and join us for the discussion online.
TeamUCL
Supported Fitness Sessions - TeamUCL are offering disabled students four free 1-2-1 fitness sessions in our campus gym, TeamUCL Gym, no gym membership needed!
This programme can be accessed by students with any disability, such as mental health conditions, physical disabilities and neurodivergence. It's designed to help you take your first steps towards an active lifestyle at your own pace, and learn how to use the gym in a safe environment.
Student-led activity
Your Disabled Students Officer, Danilo Paganelli, has organised a catalogue of events to mark the month. Get involved with:
- A talk on media accessibility in creative industries with Dr Alejandro Bolanos-Garcia-Escribano - Wednesday 26 November
- A screening of a polio documentary with UCL Immunology Society - Thursday 27 November
- Disability History Month kahoot with the UCL Disabled Students Network and the UCL Quiz Society - Friday 28 November
- A talk on ableism in academia with Dr Nicole Brown - Wednesday 3 December
- Disability representation in soap opera with UCL Soap Opera Society - Friday 5 December
Throughout history, disabled people have been silenced and repressed and hence it is so important to learn about the history of disability and the people who created change. There is still so much that needs to be done and I hope that Disability History Month will empower and inspire students. Please know you can always contact me and I will try to help as much as possible
Danilo Paganelli, Disabled Students Officer
Join the Disabled Students Network
The Disabled Students’ network works to promote the interests of disabled students including those with long term illness, neurodivergence and mental health issues. You can check them out and join the Network here.
Other ways to get involved this month
How your Students' Union can support you
We're committed to supporting disabled and neurodivergent students throughout their university journey.
We have a comprehensive page which outlines the academic, financial, and wellbeing support available to help you thrive during your time at UCL.
Please read some testimony from disabled students who’ve accessed support from the service:
I approached the Advice Service, for help navigating UCL’s exam regulations and Academic Appeals process. Over the past year, their insight has been invaluable in addressing the wider challenges students, particularly those with disabilities, face during their studies. Time and again I have been amazed by the depth of their knowledge.
My main concern was the newly centralised Academic Appeals process, which created confusion among staff and made obtaining clear guidance difficult. Their up-to-date advice was crucial, especially as I had to disclose challenges posed by my disabilities, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. Their empathy and understanding made this extremely vulnerable process far less daunting. Despite my struggles to consistently communicate at times, the prompt and tailored support ensured I never felt pressured or alone.
Their support was sensitive to my disabilities, which often leave me immobilised and struggling to complete tasks. They gave me the space and safety to express my needs at my own pace, empowering me to advocate for my academic rights and persist with my appeal.
Since seeking advice, my situation has significantly improved. It provided the clarity I needed to navigate a confusing appeals process that UCL’s website did not adequately explain. Beyond academics, advice on housing issues, including an illegal eviction, has been equally invaluable. They have gone above and beyond, continuing to support me in ways I didn’t know they could, even as I transition out of UCL.
I highly recommend this service. It has helped me navigate systemic challenges, making my time as a disabled student at UCL far more manageable and hopeful. For disabled students, I strongly encourage reaching out early to the UCL Student Union without hesitation. Addressing challenges head-on is crucial, as our unique circumstances require special consideration. Knowing your rights is the first step to accessing the support you deserve and making the most of your time at UCL.
Eve, Postgraduate (Taught)