Social Model of Disability

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At Beacon Films we believe in the Social Model of Disability and strive to apply this approach to all our work

The Social Model of Disability emphasises the responsibility of society to take positive action so that disabled people are fully included, valued, and safe rather than focusing on their impairments or differences.

By “society” we mean organisations, businesses, public bodies, government, and the wider public. This model calls on all of us to remove barriers — whether physical, attitudinal, systemic or otherwise — and to create environments where everyone can participate equally.

For Beacon Films, in practical terms, this means:

• Being open and transparent about accessibility at our main venue, and the access measures that are in place for workshops and events.

• Supporting members to devise an Access and Support Plan or Access Rider which agrees the access requirements that will be put in place for any specific activity.

• Reflecting on our practice and always being willing to learn how we can do access and inclusion even better.

Here is a brilliant video by Shape Arts which explains the social model of disability.