The Social Model of Disability

The social model of disability says that disability is created by barriers in society. Using the social model helps identify solutions to the barriers disabled people experience. It encourages the removal of these barriers within society, or the reduction of their effects, rather than trying to fix an individual’s impairment or health condition.

The social model is the preferred model for disabled people. It empowers disabled people and encourages society to be more inclusive. Level Playing Field has adopted the social model of disability.

In contrast the medical model provides the notion that disability is caused by an individual’s health condition or impairment. The medical model says that by fixing their body, disabled people will be able to participate in society like everyone else. This is an outdated model that is not supported by disabled people or their organisations.

To learn more about the social model of disability please click on the links below:

http://odi.dwp.gov.uk/about-the-odi/the-social-model.php

http://www.daii.org/about/social_model_of_disability/

http://www.redcross.org.uk/What-we-do/Teaching-resources/Teacher-briefings/Disability

http://www.disabilitywales.org/about/social-model

http://www.mdctrailblazers.org/campaigning/social-model

http://www.peoplefirstltd.com/index.php

And for a tongue in cheek explanation of the various models of disability please click on the link below:

http://sinnlos.st/help/index.html

If you have any comments or queries please contact us via email on info@levelplayingfield.org.uk or via the helpline on 0845 2306237.

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