Newsroom Archive

Heldon 3 December each year, International Day of People with Disabilities is acelebration of people with disabilities. Disability is often associated withthe colour purple, so the buildings are illuminated in that colour and #PurpleLightUpis promoted around the world.

Theday also forms part of Disability History Month which runs from 18 November to18 December. During the month, Telford & Wrekin Council is holding a seriesof awareness sessions, discussion groups and Q&As for staff, to raiseawareness and understanding of disabilities and create safe spaces for peopleto ask questions, share experiences and learn more.

CouncillorPaul Watling, Cabinet Member of Co-operative Communities, Engagement and Partnerships,said: “Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, people with disabilities have beenamongst the hardest hit, with reduced access to routine healthcare andrehabilitation and a greater social isolation.

 “InternationalDay of People with Disabilities is a special time to celebrate the achievementsand contributions of people with disability and increase awareness,understanding and acceptance.

 “Wewill be lighting Southwater One up tonight in purple to show our ongoing supportfor and commitment to disability inclusion, which the council is alsorecognised for through Disability Confident employer accreditation,

 “DuringDisability History Month we’re also facilitating and encouraging staffconversations about disability, giving people the opportunity to share theirlived experiences or ask questions.”

 Telford& Wrekin Council is accredited as a Disability Confident employer under thenational Disability Confident Scheme, recognising the authority goes the extramile to attract, keep and develop employees with disabilities, and is commitedto equality and diversity.