In today’s society, fostering an inclusive environment is not just a moral imperative but also a business necessity. The social model of disability offers a progressive framework for creating such an environment. This model, developed by disabled people, shifts the focus from individual impairments to societal barriers, emphasising the role of businesses in facilitating change and inclusion.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Social Model of Disability
At its core, the social model of disability posits that it is not an individual’s impairment or condition that disables them, but rather the barriers erected by society. These barriers could be physical, digital, or attitudinal, preventing equal access and participation in society.
Examples of Societal Barriers
- Physical Barriers: These are not limited to stairs without ramps or non-automatic doors. They also include environments that are not conducive to communication, like spaces without quiet rooms or with overly bright lights.
- Digital Barriers: Websites and digital services that are not designed with accessibility in mind, such as those lacking assistive technology compatibility or containing complex language, pose significant barriers.
- Attitudinal Barriers: Prejudices and misconceptions about disabilities can manifest in various ways, from not hiring someone due to their condition to underestimating their capabilities.
The Medical Model vs. The Social Model
Contrasting with the social model is the medical model of disability, which focuses on the individual’s impairment as the source of disability. This model often views disability as a permanent, unchangeable state. In contrast, the social model recognises that societal changes can effectively “disable” or “enable” an individual.
Implementing the Social Model in Business
Responsibility of Businesses
Adopting the social model means recognising that every member of a business, regardless of their role, has a responsibility to remove barriers. This applies both internally, for employees, and externally, for customers and clients.
Areas of Focus
- Communication: Ensuring that emails, policies, and documents are accessible and understandable.
- Physical Environment: Making workplaces and customer areas physically accessible to all.
- Digital Accessibility: Creating websites and digital products that are user-friendly for people with a variety of abilities.
- Inclusive Culture: Cultivating an environment that values diverse experiences and perspectives.
The Curb Cut Effect
The concept of the ‘curb cut effect’ illustrates how making changes for accessibility benefits everyone. Originally designed for wheelchair users, curb cuts on sidewalks also assist people with strollers, luggage, or bicycles. Similarly, inclusive design in business practices can have far-reaching benefits beyond the immediate target group.
Benefits of the Social Model for Businesses
- Enhanced Understanding: Helps the workforce appreciate the importance of accessibility in their work.
- Broader Reach: Accessible practices often result in products and services that appeal to a wider audience.
- Inclusive Design: Leads to innovations that benefit not just disabled individuals but everyone.
Conclusion
Adopting the social model of disability is a significant step towards creating an inclusive society and business environment. It’s not just about removing barriers for disabled individuals but about restructuring our societal landscape to be inherently inclusive. Businesses play a crucial role in this transformation, and by embracing the social model, they can contribute to a more equitable world where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
