Oliver was an academic, an author and a disability rights activist. He was responsible for advocating the Social Model of Disability.
More than 35 years ago he first introduced the world to the Social Model of Disability that identifies not only physical barriers but also systemic barriers, negative attitudes and exclusion by society that contribute towards disabling people.
He changed census questions in the 1980s from, “What prevents you from getting around?” to, “What barriers in your area prevent you from getting around?” It changed the emphasis from the person to society.
Level Playing Field said
“We were saddened to learn of Mike Oliver’s death at the weekend. He changed the way people view disability and disabled people”.
“The Social Model of Disability is at the core of Level Playing Field’s work and we strongly believe that the person is only disabled by society. Our CPD accredited training courses focus on removing those barriers; whether they are environmental, organisational or attitudinal.”
“More than 50% of disabled people have never attended a live event and we want to ensure that being able to support your favourite team is accessible. We want match days to be inclusive to all.”
“Disabled people don’t want special treatment, they tell us that all they want is to be able to turn up at the ground with the minimum of fuss, watch the game, sit alongside fellow supporters, have a drink, use appropriate toilet facilities and go home like everyone else. Surely in 2019 that’s not too much to ask?”