Creating Accessible Teaching and Support

Language both reflects and constructs the way we think about people with disability. Inclusive language is therefore an essential part of making sure people with disability are not excluded from aspects of university life.  Staff and students have a responsibility to be aware of the impact of their verbal and written language on others. 

The portrayal of people with disabilities has been fraught with contradictions because of non-disabled people's ambivalent attitudes towards disability. If the words we use to describe people with disabilities are negative, they both reflect and reinforce negative attitudes. These attitudes are often the most difficult barriers that people with disabilities face.

Staff and students have a responsibility to be aware of the impact of their verbal and written language on others. The use of non-inclusive language may be viewed as discrimination or harassment, and thus be unlawful. 

Inclusive language is language that does not demean, insult, exclude, stereotype, or trivialise people on the basis of their disability, race or gender. It means avoiding terminology that may be offensive or portray any group in a stereotypical way.

This is not about being "politically correct" but rather it is about using language that is acceptable to the people being described.

Where discriminatory or offensive language is used, please challenge this and suggest alternative phrases and words.

Language is dynamic and we need to be sensitive to changing expressions and meanings but the following are suggestions:

• Put the person not the disability first. For example "people with disability", "a person with a hearing impairment".
• Phrases such as "suffers from", "stricken with" or "victim of" should not be used. People with disabilities do not necessarily suffer, nor do they wish to be seen as victims.
• Refer to "people without disabilities" rather than "normal" or "able-bodied" people.
• When producing material about people with disabilities, show them as active participants in society.
• If you are unsure whether you are behaving appropriately or using the right language, just ask the person!