When Waymo launches its driverless vehicle service in London — planned for 2026, subject to UK Government approval — it will not just change how blind and partially sighted people socialise or shop. It will change who can get to work. The ability to travel independently, spontaneously and without relying
When Sir Stephen Timms published his interim review of Personal Independence Payment on 9 July 2026, the headlines focused on the benefit itself — the four million claimants, the dehumanising assessment process, the ballooning cost. But buried inside the BBC’s reporting on the Timms review is a finding that every
Approximately 75% of blind and partially sighted people of working age in the UK are not in employment. Not because they lack ability, ambition or drive — but because the systems, processes and assumptions built into most hiring and working environments place barriers in their way before they even reach
The Public Accounts Committee’s June 2026 report on Access to Work makes for uncomfortable reading. A backlog of 66,000 applications, processing times averaging 106 working days, and a scheme so administratively difficult to use that it is deterring the very employment it exists to support. For employers looking to hire
When FIFA announced that all 104 matches at the 2026 World Cup would include Audio Descriptive Commentary via a dedicated app, it did not make the headlines the way a transfer or a squad announcement would. But for employers thinking seriously about accessibility and inclusion, it is worth pausing on
Rory is 18. He has Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy, three to five per cent of his vision remaining, and three A* grades earned after losing most of his sight mid-way through his A-levels. He is now studying business at university in Belfast. Apple’s film about his journey is well worth
In recent times, the conversation around diversity and inclusion has intensified, with varying opinions on its importance and effectiveness. Esther McVey’s recent article in The Telegraph, “Wasteful Whitehall diversity and inclusion spending will end,” highlights concerns about the efficiency and necessity of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) programs. While scrutinizing
On 2 June 2026, it was announced that John McFall — NHS surgeon, Paralympian, and prospective astronaut — is one step closer to becoming the first physically disabled person to live and work in space. He has been medically cleared for a long-duration mission, completed rigorous multi-disciplinary training, and is
Seventy-five per cent of blind and partially sighted people of working age are not in employment. That figure is not explained by a shortage of capable candidates. It is explained, in large part, by the barriers that prevent them from getting — and staying — in work. Transport is one
