International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Established by the United Nations, this important day aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of disabled individuals and to celebrate their achievements and contributions. Additionally, the observance seeks to advance the inclusion of persons with disabilities in political, social, economic, and cultural life, ensuring equal access to education, employment, and resources.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992 to promote its work in this area and to encourage global cooperation. For the people in the United Kingdom, this day holds particular significance in highlighting the achievements of more than 13 million individuals with some form of disability. As part of the observance, various government agencies, charities, and organizations collaborate to raise awareness of the challenges faced by disabled persons and work to address any barriers to equal opportunities and social inclusion while promoting disability rights.

In the United Kingdom, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed through various events and activities, such as seminars, workshops, conferences, and public discussions on inclusivity and accessibility. Schools, communities, and workplaces participate in raising awareness and promoting understanding of disability issues, aiming for a more inclusive and equitable society. Every year, this important observance takes place on the 3rd of December, underlining the commitment of the United Kingdom to empower persons with disabilities and ensure their rights and well-being are safeguarded.

Facts about International Day of Persons with Disabilities

• The theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2024 was Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future , and in 2023 was Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world.
• According to the WHO’s World Report on Disability, 15% of the world's population are living with a disability.
• The most common types of disabilities in the UK include physical disabilities, sensory impairments, mental health conditions, and learning disabilities.
• The employment rate for people with disabilities in the UK was around 53.2% in 2020, compared to an employment rate of 81.7% among those without disabilities. The government has introduced various initiatives, such as the 'Access to Work' program, providing practical and financial support to help disabled people find and stay in employment.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Volunteer at a learning disability center or an assisted living facility.
• Contact your local politicians and policymakers to advocate for disability rights and improvements in relevant policies and legislation. Use this day to raise issues and seek positive change.
• Take part in disability-friendly sports events, such as wheelchair basketball or blind football. Promote inclusive fitness and physical activities that can be enjoyed by people of all abilities.