Shining light on disability champions
THE nation’s most dedicated disability equality champions will be celebrated at charity Scope’s second annual awards ceremony today.
The event also welcomes business trailblazers such as Lego, Apple, and Cadbury.
The Daily Express is partnering with Scope for this year’s awards at The Oval in South London – the first time the charity has officially joined with a news outlet.
They will be hosted by world champion athlete and Paralympic gold medallist Kadeena Cox, 33.
More than 300 entries have been whittled down to 45 individuals, groups, and firms championing disability equality and inclusion.
Award categories include Campaign, Journalist, Role Model of the Year, Inclusive Workplace, and Community Group.
Abilities
Former Paralympian swimmer Ellie Simmonds, 29, is among five up for the role model gong.
Others include the Rights on Flights campaign, which has fought to ensure disabled people have safe, dignified and comfortable air travel.
BBC series Ralph & Katie, which follows newlyweds who have Down’s syndrome, is up for the Media Moment award.
The series, starring Sarah Gordy, 47, and Leon Harrop, 32, was picked for a scene where Katie is shocked by Ralph’s perception of her abilities. Her response challenges people to not make assumptions about disabled people’s skills and potential.
This year’s judging panel comprises 25 disabled people with expertise in different areas. The ceremony, which will also be livestreamed, is free to attend.
Head judge Dr Shani Dhanda, a disability campaigner and Scope ambassador, said of the nominees: “I hope they will empower the next generation of disability advocates.”
Scope social change director, James Taylor, said: “The awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding work of disabled people, allies and organisations hoping to create an equal future.”