The CSP has highlighted that life for disabled people is unequal – with higher costs of living, barriers to work, and damaging stereotypes - and has called for government action to tackle these inequities.
CSP delegates advocated for greater equality for disabled people at the Disabled Workers’ TUC Conference, which was held in Bournemouth from 3–4 June.
Jasmine Churms, a paediatric physiotherapist at Bristol children’s hospital and a member of the TUC Disabled Workers committee, delivered a speech to conference in support of the CSP motions on an equal future for disabled people and disability leave.
The CSP called on the TUC Disabled Workers committee to work with the government to:
- Support disabled people into fair and proper work with timely access to reasonable adjustments where needed.
- Stop the practice of disabled people facing a higher cost of living to get through their everyday lives.
- Challenge harmful stereotypes, negative attitudes, and assumptions about disabled people.
The CSP motion 'Building an equal future for disabled people' was supported by eight unions, and the motion was passed unanimously.
CSP member, Marina Laurie, a physiotherapist and independent practitioner based in Southeast London, spoke in support of The Royal College of Midwives motion on 'Reasonable adjustments and maternity services' and the National Education Union motion on 'Challenging pay disparities for disabled workers'.
Both motions were passed.
Speaking about their experience at the conference, Jasmine said: ‘It’s been incredibly meaningful to share space with other like-minded disabled activists and to be a part of a conference that uplifts and empowers disabled workers across the country. I’ve had the opportunity to share my own voice on the issues that matter most to me.
‘I highly recommend attending the Disabled Workers Conferences as it’s a great place to meet and connect with other disabled CSP members in the delegation, as well as members from different unions and activist groups.’
During conference, Jasmine was elected as a full voting member of the national TUC Disabled Workers committee in the young workers’ section.
Find out more
Are you keen to get involved in the democratic decision-making of the trade union movement?
Speak to national officer Siân Caulfield for an informal chat about joining a future Disabled Worker’s TUC Conference.
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