Santander Work Cafés introduce ‘accessibility scores’
Santander has partnered with Snowball, the mobile app often described as “TripAdvisor for the disabled community,” to introduce accessibility scores at its popular high-street Work Cafés. Similar to a food hygiene rating, these scores aim to promote transparency and provide greater support for disabled customers. The initial rollout covers Santander Work Cafés in Leeds and Milton Keynes, along with three London locations – Triton Square, Cheapside, and Kensington High Street – all of which have been individually assessed by Snowball’s team. Each café, which offers free co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, was evaluated for accessibility features including wheelchair access, as well as design considerations for individuals with dyslexia, neurodivergent conditions, and dementia. All five cafés have achieved the top accessibility rating of five out of five, a score recognised by the disabled community and now prominently displayed within each location. Created by disabled activist and wheelchair user Simon Sansome, Snowball is a mobile app dedicated to improving accessibility across the UK. With over 100,000 user reviews, it features a built-in satnav for navigating accessible venues and a national disability rating system, now adopted by Santander’s Work Cafés. The platform helps businesses enhance accessibility while offering membership options for those wishing to be rated and listed. Following a successful trial, Santander plans to expand the accessibility rating scheme to additional Work Cafés in London and other cities, as well as to its contact centres. Simon Sansome commented: “I’m delighted Santander has embraced our disability rating initiative. Disabled individuals make up a significant portion of the UK workforce, yet their needs are often overlooked in the design of offices, co-working spaces, and conference facilities. Santander has long been on my radar as a business that prioritises accessibility. By partnering with us, they’re making a real difference – helping disabled customers and colleagues enjoy their exceptional business support services, and, of course, their fantastic coffee.” The Snowball app is available for free on Apple and Android.
Turning Passion into Progress ScottishPower Foundation Awards
From revolutionising Deaf healthcare to transforming dementia care with music, the ScottishPower Foundation Awards have celebrated six inspiring charities making waves across the country. At a ceremony honouring outstanding impact across four categories, the winners of each award received £10,000 for their charities to further their essential efforts, while the runners-up were awarded £5,000 each. The prestigious Charity Champion Award was presented to Robin Ash, a passionate advocate and educator at Deaf-led charity SignHealth, for his groundbreaking work improving healthcare access for the Deaf community. Drawing on lived experience, Robin travels across England and Wales delivering British Sign Language (BSL) workshops that empower Deaf people to understand their rights under the Accessible Information Standard (AIS) and advocate for themselves in medical settings. His sessions also support healthcare professionals in meeting AIS requirements – a vital step, given that only 35% currently receive regular training. SignHealth’s research reveals that 81% of Deaf patients have attended appointments where their communication needs weren’t met. Thanks to Robin’s workshops, many professionals now routinely ask about communication needs and ensure BSL interpreters are booked in advance. Known for his warmth, patience and tireless commitment, Robin often works evenings and weekends to reach more communities. His workshops are fully booked for the next year – a testament to their impact. Judges praised Robin for building change from the ground up and helping create a more inclusive health service Robin Ash, Community Engagement Officer at SignHealth said, “I’m honoured to have my work recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation. Campaigning for fair and equal healthcare access for Deaf people has been my lifelong passion. This prize money will help our fantastic team here at SignHealth to reach even more people within the Deaf community, delivering life-saving workshops across the country.” The Community Engagement Award went to Playlist for Life, which is transforming dementia care through the power of personally meaningful music. In 2024, its campaigns – including National Playlist Day, backed by Sir Alex Ferguson – reached over 5 million people, encouraging them to reflect on the music that shaped their lives. Supporting over 60,000 families through 2,500 Help Point partners, Playlist for Life has seen remarkable outcomes, including an 80% reduction in medication for some patients in Fife. Its gold-standard engagement brings together communities, professionals and public figures to show that music is both joyful and life-saving. Michael Timmons, Executive Director at Playlist for Life, said, “It’s fantastic to be to be recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation for our work supporting communities across Scotland and the UK with free resources, advice and support. This award is shared with everyone living with dementia, their families, carers and all who’ve helped Playlist for Life bring the soundtrack back into people’s lives. The additional funding will help us reach even more people nationwide. Our heartfelt thanks to the ScottishPower Foundation for championing the power of playlists.” The Education Award was presented to The Oswin Project, which is transforming lives through education, training and employment for prisoners and ex-offenders. From catering and horticulture to heritage skills and bicycle engineering, its tailored programmes help individuals rebuild confidence, reconnect with families and reintegrate into society. Fiona Sample MBE, Founder and CEO at The Oswin Project, said, “This award from the ScottishPower Foundation will provide us with additional funding to help us continue reducing reoffending through our transformational mentoring and education, giving hope to those once considered hopeless. “By tailoring our support to each individual, we empower them to rebuild self-esteem, provide for their families and contribute positively to society. Together we can create safer communities, fewer victims of crime and a future where no one is defined solely by their past.” Finally, the Innovation Award went to the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust for its floating classroom, which brings marine science to life for children in remote coastal communities. Aboard the ‘Silurian’, the organisations’ research vessel, young learners hoist sails, spot wildlife, listen to porpoise clicks and connect their experiences to real-world science and sustainability. Sadie Gorvett, Education and Sightings Officer, said, “This recognition is so important to us as it celebrates our floating classroom and the communities that make it possible by sparking passion and interest in the local environment and encouraging conversations about the actions that we can all take to help protect it. “With no comparable project in the country it has become a unique and highly sought after experience. With this additional support from the ScottishPower Foundation we’ll inspire young ocean ambassadors and expand education and research to protect Scotland’s west coast marine wildlife together.” Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said, “At the ScottishPower Foundation, we believe in the power of people to change lives – and this year’s Award winners have done just that. Their passion, resilience and creativity are nothing short of inspiring. “Stories like Robin’s are the reason we do this. Every winner is a true champion, tackling vital challenges. We’re incredibly proud to support these changemakers who are lighting up communities, breaking down barriers and building a brighter future for all. It’s a privilege to stand beside them and help their impact grow.” Further details on the winners and runners-up are available on the ScottishPower Foundation website: scottishpowerfoundation.com.
Purple Tuesday 2025
Businesses and organisations across the UK are hosting a series of events on Tuesday 4th November, to celebrate Purple Tuesday, the global initiative to improve the customer experience for disabled people and their families. There are 16 million disabled people in the UK (24% of the population or one in five of us), whilst 80% have a disabled friend or relative, so improved accessibility is good for business and should matter to everyone. Now in its eighth-year, Purple Tuesday sees businesses, community groups and other organisations across the UK, pulling out all the stops to raise awareness of the importance of accessibility. Activity will include purple-themed events, awareness sessions with guest speakers, in-house training, panel discussions and interactive workshops – an array of engaging initiatives accessible for all. In the last year alone, Purple Tuesday has supported organisations to deliver 8,000 new accessibility changes to improve the customer experience for disabled people and their families. A record 8,500 organisations across 13 countries are taking part in this year’s Purple Tuesday, with national events taking place in the UK, Jersey, Germany, the UAE, Oman Hong Kong, Malaysia, Pakistan and the USA. Official celebrations will kick off in London on Tuesday 4th November, where Purple Tuesday partners and disabled ambassadors will come together to see the famous Piccadilly lights turn purple and watch the premiere of the new Purple Tuesday Production. Later on in the day, there will a groundbreaking collaboration between Purple Tuesday, drone art curators Lumina, and Ambassador and author Shani Dhanda, hosted by Westfield shopping centre. This first-of-its-kind light show will combine breathtaking aerial artistry, to bring to life the award-winning story that celebrates the beauty of inclusion “The No Horn Unicorn”. The design is low-noise and sensory-considerate, making it perfect for neurodiverse and disabled audiences. Mike Adams OBE, Executive Chair of Purple Group and Founder of Purple Tuesday, said: “As we celebrate the eighth year of Purple Tuesday, it’s fantastic to see the continued commitment shown by our participants, to keep working towards a world where accessibility is everywhere, for everyone. So often the focus of accessibility campaigning is to highlight the places that are getting it wrong. I believe we should also celebrate the good – those businesses that are making a positive difference to the lives of disabled people every day. Using our #ThinkAccessibility theme, I hope that by showcasing good practice, we will inspire others who may be falling short, to begin their own accessibility journey this year.” Jamie Kerruish, Chief Healthcare Officer for Boots, and Executive sponsor for the Boots Disability Alliance Business Resource Group, said:“At Boots, we have proudly supported Purple Tuesday for five years and remain committed to creating a more inclusive shopping environment for disabled customers. This year, we are offering all our store colleagues the opportunity to learn and understand some key phrases in British Sign Language so they can continue to welcome and support some of our deaf and hard of hearing customers. I encourage other organisations to join the Purple Tuesday movement to ensure that the joy of shopping is accessible for all.” Purple Tuesday connects disabled people with businesses – from global giants to micro enterprises – and is dedicated to promoting a more accessible and inclusive world by highlighting the value and contributions of people with disabilities as consumers, employees, and community members. It is an open invitation to the disability and business communities to shift perceptions and celebrate inclusion and accessibility in all forms. Visit https://purpletuesday.co for more information. #PurpleTuesday or #ThinkAccessibility
Accessibility app Snowball impresses
Simon Sansome, the creator of Snowball, a mobile app that describes itself as ‘the Trip Advisor for the disabled community’, secured backing from all five moguls on the hit BBC show, Dragons’ Den. The show that aired 30th October, showed wheelchair user, Simon, dazzle the full panel of multimillionaire investors with his mobile app. Snowball allows people with a full range of disabilities, including hidden disabilities, to discover accessible services and locations throughout the UK – from parking and petrol stations, to health and hospitality. Leicestershire-based Simon, who experienced a life-changing injury in 2014, leaving him paralysed from the waist down, came up with the idea for the mobile app, which features user-generated content and reviews, after a Facebook page he created to raise awareness of accessible spots reached an audience of over 30m people. He went on to create the award-winning Snowball app for IoS and Android users, which was an instant hit. Peter Jones proposed the £80k investment was split equally among the five Dragons, who all rushed to secure a stake in Simon’s business, each offering £16k for a 5% share. Simon commented on the result: “When I received a clean sweep of all five Dragons, I was in shock. After eight years of hard work, it’s fair to say this was a very emotional moment for me. “The atmosphere in the studio was electric. As I shared my story and the journey behind Snowball, I could see the panel becoming more and more engaged. When Peter made an offer and said he was also willing to share with the other Dragons, I knew something special was happening. To have all five of them eager to be part of the business was surreal – it’s every entrepreneur’s dream, and I’ll never forget that moment.” Third-party investment has been key in bringing Simon’s game-changing app to market, so when the opportunity to appear on the hit show came up, he jumped at the chance to secure both financial and strategic input from the A-list entrepreneurs. Watch Simon face the business moguls on iPlayer. https://company.snowball.community
Birmingham deafblind centre to transform lives
“It’ll be life-changing” – that’s how an internationally renowned deafblind athlete has described a new deafblind research centre at Birmingham City University (BCU). Opened last week (23 October), the Deafblind UK Education and Research Centre will connect researchers, practitioners, and people living with deafblindness, to increase knowledge and raise awareness of the condition. “This centre is the first of its kind in the UK – and it wouldn’t have been possible without our partnership with BCU,” said Nikki Morris, CEO of Deafblind UK. “BCU is a university that is making a difference to those affected by deafblindness, building on trust and integrity with us as a partner. “With this centre we can answer questions and come up with innovations that will make the world of deafblindess and those affected by it, a better place to be.” Deafblind UK reports that nearly 450,000 people in the UK are deafblind – around 6 in every 1,000 individuals. With an ageing population, this number is expected to rise to more than 600,000 by 2030. Deafblind UK partnered with BCU in 2019 to launch the Certificate and Diploma in Professional Studies (Deafblind Studies), the first of its kind in the UK. Officially opening the centre was Samantha Gough, a full-time deafblind athlete and content creator, who has captained England’s blind women football team and is a rower on the GP Power Pathway. Samantha, a Deafblind UK ambassador, said “This is going to be an amazing hub for raising awareness but also build on education and research around deafblindness. “Not a lot of people know about deafblindness. People seem to think you’ve got to be deaf or blind, not together. “I want to use my platform to spread awareness that dual sensory loss affects hundreds of thousands of people, but also to share my journey living with sight and hearing loss. “This centre is going to be life-changing for so many people.” Dr Peter Simcock, Associate Professor of Social Work and Centre Lead at BCU, said the centre’s work had already begun and would have an impact globally. “We’re involved in an international project exploring the lived experiences of deafblind people across the world,” said Dr Simcock. “We’re also leading a study exploring the social care experiences of deafblind people in Wales and undertaking a review examining the use of ‘cash for care schemes’ by deafblind sign language users. “This centre also has a pivotal role in equipping junior researchers and the future workforce with the knowledge and skills to become future leaders in deafblind research and practice.” Find out more about BCU’s Health and Social Care research here.
Rail regulator tightening up accessible travel redress rules
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has made it mandatory for all rail operators to assess redress claims from passengers whose booked assistance failed, on a case-by-case basis. The change is detailed in an update to the regulator’s Accessible Travel Policy (ATP) Guidance. Redress is a way that operators can seek to put things right for a passenger where they have failed to deliver booked assistance. It is not always or necessarily a form of financial compensation. It could be an apology, a gesture of goodwill, and/or a compensatory payment. Whatever form it may take, redress is a way in which passengers can receive assurance that failures are being acted upon, and for operators to recognise the impact of the failure on passengers. The change follows a consultation prompted by concerns that some operators’ policies could appear to restrict compensation to the ticket price. ORR will shortly be requesting relevant train companies make any necessary amendments to implement the case-by-case approach. A number of wider issues were raised during the consultation, including whether there is a need for further guidance to support decision-making on redress, as well as questions around the scope of redress policy and the way claims are owned and managed. ORR is committed to carrying out further work on these areas and will publish an update in spring 2026. Stephanie Tobyn, ORR’s director of strategy, policy and reform, said: “The impact on passengers when an operator fails to deliver assistance can vary greatly, so it’s right that claims for redress are considered on a case-by-case basis. This ensures operators properly assess each passenger’s experience and provide redress that appropriately reflects the impact of what went wrong.” Contact Information Saj Chowdhurysaj.chowdhury@orr.gov.uk https://www.orr.gov.uk/consultation-accessible-travel-policy-atp-guidance-redress-requirements-decision-document-html
Winter Wonderwheels Powered by Marvel Returns
11am Sunday 7 December 2025 | Dorney Lake, Windsor Winter Wonderwheels powered by Marvel – the UK’s biggest festive mass-participation disability sports event – returns with a flourish and a flurry of fake snow on Sunday December 7, 2025. So, grab your superhero cape, Santa hat and Sidekicks and get ready to run, walk or wheel 1K, 5K or 10K alongside Dorney Lake, Windsor. The ultimate ‘Superhero Santa Dash’ for people with disabilities and their families, this fabulously festive event invites participants to cycle, run, walk, wheel, push or be pushed to complete their chosen distance. Purposefully aligned close to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, Winter Wonderwheels gives people the chance to show what they CAN do (not what they can’t) and celebrate what makes them different. Anything goes with adaptive kit and support from Sidekicks actively encouraged to help people cover the distance. There are no cut-off times and all types of gadgets and gizmos are welcome on the course – from day chairs, handcycles and trikes to tandems, race runners and bikes. Who can enter Winter Wonderwheels? That depends on the chosen mission. Participants entering a solo missions must consider themselves to have a disability of any kind. Anyone can enter as a team, as long as at least one member of the team considers themselves to have a disability of any kind. Challenge distances: Get set for a festive festival atmosphere packed with food stalls, music and carols. Santa will start the event, setting off a sea of superheroes, fellow-Santas and elves on their joyful way. “At this time of year there are plenty of opportunities for people to dress up and be active but there are few, if any, options for people with disabilities to do the same,” says Sophia Warner, founder of the Superhero Series including Winter Wonderwheels. “Winter Wonderwheels enables people with disabilities to celebrate the season with their families and friends. It gets everyone in the festive mood which is what it’s all about.” To find out more and enter visit https://superheroseries.co.uk/winter-wonderwheels-2025 Media contact for further information, comment or a press pass for the day: Katherine Selby, Katherine@action-group.co.uk / 07787 533143
Raising Awareness on World Spina Bifida Day
This World Spina Bifida Day, 25th October, occupational therapist Stuart Barrow is sharing his family’s inspiring story, which highlights how accessible homes can transform the lives of children living with spina bifida. His daughter, Bonnie, who is five years old, was born with spina bifida myelomeningocele, the most severe form of the condition. She is paralysed from the waist down, uses a wheelchair, and has encountered multiple medical challenges since birth. For Stuart and his wife, ensuring Bonnie could move safely and confidently around their home became a mission, one that ultimately led to installing a Stiltz homelift. Challenges Faced at Home “When Bonnie was tiny, even the simplest tasks were hard,” Stuart recalls. “She had no head control, a healing wound on her back, and we had to carry her up and down the stairs every day. It was exhausting and frightening. We knew it couldn’t go on.” The family looked into stairlifts but quickly realised they wouldn’t be practical or safe long term. “Bonnie would have had to transfer on and off every time, and our staircase is narrow and curved,” he explains. “We needed a better solution.” Choosing the Right Solution Stuart, who works as an Occupational Therapist, began researching homelifts. “Because of my professional background, I had some knowledge of homelifts and wanted to approach this objectively. I looked at various manufacturers and their products, and Stiltz was the only company that could provide a lift that could be positioned exactly where we needed it.” After nearly three years of planning, grant applications, and construction, the lift was finally installed. The transformation was instant. Bonnie’s Every Day Freedom was Restored “Now, Bonnie’s grandma can take her upstairs safely. Bonnie can wheel herself into the lift, press the buttons and choose where to go. That independence means everything,” Stuart says. “She feels more connected to her home and has more control over her day. There are practical benefits, of course, but the emotional impact is harder to describe. We feel more connected as a family and can enjoy everyday moments again without stress or fear.” The change has benefited the whole family. “My wife and I can go out knowing she’s safe. Her brother loves helping her use it. It’s made our home feel like a place of joy again.” Changing Perspectives on Accessibility For Stuart, the family’s experience has reinforced his commitment to raise awareness about accessibility and early home adaptations, particularly during World Spina Bifida Day. “So many families live with unnecessary stress because their homes simply don’t work for them,” he explains. “It’s not just about lifts or ramps, it’s about independence, inclusion and quality of life.” A Message of Hope Bonnie’s story is a reminder that the right support and equipment can transform lives. “People often think a stairlift is the only option,” Stuart adds, “but a homelift can be safer, easier, and far more empowering, particularly for children like Bonnie.” For this family, what began as a complex building project has become a daily source of pride and freedom. “Bonnie loves showing visitors her lift,” Stuart smiles. “It’s her way of saying, ‘I can do it myself.’” To read the full story, visit the Stiltz website. About Stiltz UK-based Stiltz Homelifts is an award-winning manufacturer and installer of domestic lifts designed to help people continue living in the homes they love, for as long as possible. Global distribution enables older and less mobile individuals around the world move around their home safely and independently. Contemporary design and modular assembly gives Stiltz Homelifts a unique look and functionality like no other lift currently available.
Breaking Boundaries
Shining a Spotlight on Inclusive Clubs and Organisations for Disabled People within Yorkshire Leeds-based specialist healthcare equipment provider Independence Mobility has launched a video series called Breaking Boundaries, which celebrates inclusive clubs and activities across Yorkshire and the North. The series aims to raise awareness, break down barriers, and inspire people with disabilities to get involved in opportunities that can transform both their physical and mental well-being. The idea for Breaking Boundaries was born from the Independence Mobility team witnessing firsthand the everyday challenges faced by people with disabilities, from social isolation to physical limitations and a lack of awareness about inclusive opportunities. Too often, people simply don’t realise what’s available to them or have the confidence to access it. In Motion wheelchair dance class at Northern Ballet Breaking Boundaries bridges that gap. By highlighting clubs, sports organisations, and social groups, and chatting with the leaders and participants, the series helps spread the word to individuals and families who could benefit hugely from accessing them. Each video offers an insight into what these clubs provide, from sports like powerchair football and table tennis, to dance, learning programmes, and social opportunities. Anthony Mitchell, Director of Independence Mobility, explained, “We may be a small business, but we believe we can make a big impact. Breaking Boundaries is about showing people that there are inclusive, welcoming clubs and organisations out there waiting for them. So many people we spoke to didn’t know these opportunities even existed, and we want to change that. We’re passionate about changing lives. Breaking Boundaries is about building confidence, creating community, and showing that disability doesn’t have to mean limitation.” Leeds Powerchair Football Club Already, the series has spotlighted organisations including Northern Ballet’s ‘In Motion’ dance class, Leeds Powerchair Football Club, Disability Sport Yorkshire, and Paralympic athlete Oye Abisoye, with his table tennis journey. The response so far has been powerful. Craig Shepherd, CEO of Disability Sport Yorkshire, shared: “In just a few weeks since the release of the video, we’ve seen more service users accessing our programmes, many of them mentioning that a family member shared the video with them.” Social prescribing club at Disability Sport Yorkshire And Ellie, a wheelchair user and dancer in the In Motion dance class at Northern Ballet, expressed: “I didn’t think I could dance in a wheelchair. I wasn’t very good at dancing before I was in a wheelchair, but it’s a really nice friendly group and Kim and Catrina are amazing at making you feel comfortable and welcome. They will adapt things however it suits you.” The initiative isn’t stopping here. Independence Mobility is calling on more inclusive clubs and organisations to get in touch if they would like to be featured in a future episode. To watch their latest feature showcasing Northern Ballet’s InMotion wheelchair dance class, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7JLuy_-IwM&t=5s Or view all features here: https://www.independencemobility.co.uk/breaking-boundaries.html To learn more about Breaking Boundaries, or if your organisation would like a chance to be featured, email hello@independencemobility.co.uk About Independence Mobility Since 2004, Independence Mobility has been providing specialist healthcare equipment, proudly making a positive difference to thousands of customers along the way. They partner closely with the UK’s leading manufacturers to ensure they provide the latest, most innovative mobility solutions. Their extensive range includes specialist seating, wheelchairs, beds, pressure care products, children’s cycles, and more. Independence Mobility is also a preferred supplier for Newlife, the UK’s largest charitable provider of specialist equipment for disabled children. For more information, please visit: https://www.independencemobility.co.uk/breaking-boundaries