EE DISABILITY FA CUP
The EE Disability FA Cup will make its highly anticipated return for its ninth edition this summer, taking place at St. George’s Park across the weekend of 28-29 June 2025. This year, the tournament will feature a new name, as the EE Disability FA Cup. Following their continued support and partnership of the tournament since 2022, EE becomes the official title partner for the next four years, enhancing the competition’s alignment with its other prestigious counterparts – The Emirates FA Cup and the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. The EE Disability FA Cup brings together six formats of impairment-specific football: Amputee, Blind, Cerebral Palsy, Deaf, Partially Sighted, and Powerchair. Played across six finals at St. George’s Park, the competition provides a platform for disabled players to showcase their talent on the national stage, at the home of England football. As a key pillar of The FA’s Disability Football strategy – Football Without Limits – the EE Disability FA Cup plays a vital role in the growth and awareness of disability football in England. The strategy’s aims include increasing participation and the number of coaches, creating an inclusive talent pathway, building support for elite players, and raising awareness of disability football at all levels. The full schedule for this year’s EE Disability FA Cup will be confirmed in due course. James Kendall, Director of Football Development at The FA said: “We are thrilled to welcome EE as the title partner of the EE Disability FA Cup. The refreshed name and logo further elevates the competition as a key event in the national football calendar, in line with our other FA competitions. This event is a celebration of the incredible talent in disability football, and we look forward to an exciting, action-packed weekend at St. George’s Park.” Kelly Engstrom, Brand Communications Director, EE said: “We are delighted to be continuing our support for the EE Disability FA Cup, with our status as title partner demonstrating our commitment to amplifying and celebrating para and disability football. Since joining in 2022, we have been privileged to witness the growth of this tournament, and have no doubt that this year’s iteration will continue to serve up brilliant moments and opportunities for players, coaches and fans too.”
From Mobility Scooter to Marathon
How I Transformed My Life with Mindfulness, Natural Living, and Determination by Samphire Hayes …Six years ago, with my world consumed with pain, despair, and a sense of isolation, I bought a mobility scooter. Walking had become an excruciating struggle, and as a result, I was missing out on the joy of taking my children on outings. While their father filled the role of the adventure companion, I sat at home, increasingly frustrated and depressed. The relentless pain in my body not only hindered my ability to live the life I desired but also prevented me from being the mother I longed to be. A diagnosis of fibromyalgia and degenerative disc disease delivered a crushing blow, with doctors proclaiming that I would endure a lifetime of pain. However, fueled by a determination to redefine my reality, I embarked on a path of acceptance and sought ways to regain control over my life. Every day felt like a prison sentence. I woke up, instantly consumed by the pain that awaited me. Simple tasks, such as walking to the bathroom or taking a shower, became monumental challenges. Despite the pain, I soldiered on, getting my children ready and driving them to school while I struggled to keep my agony hidden. The school playground, where parents gathered, became an emotional minefield for me. I desperately avoided eye contact, fearing that any interaction would prolong my time on my feet when all I longed for was to retreat to the comfort of my home. The desire to connect with other school mums simmered within me, but it was easier to withdraw, keep my head down, and only engage when absolutely necessary. Back at home, I spent my days on the sofa, seeking solace in the television, using it as a temporary escape from my own reality. But the pain persisted, and guilt consumed me as I often had to send my children off to entertain themselves with electronic devices due to my inability to play with them. My misery grew, further exacerbated by the disorderly state of our home, leading to arguments with my husband, who failed to comprehend the depths of my pain. To the outside world, I appeared fine, concealing the invisible battle I fought daily. Seeking relief, I embarked on a relentless pursuit of solutions. Medications such as antidepressants, anti-seizure tablets, and potent painkillers. I consulted physiotherapists, rheumatologists, and neurosurgeons, yet their efforts fell short. Frustration grew as I found myself lost within the medical system, with fragmented care and no communication between my doctors. The fatigue of battling chronic pain wore me down, and I grew disillusioned with the healthcare system. Determined not to accept their prognosis of a lifelong struggle, I sought a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. Embarking on sessions with a compassionate counsellor and openly discussing my challenges marked a promising beginning, and I began to learn more about mindfulness. One evening, during my children’s bedtime routine, the pain overwhelmed me. Collapsing on the floor in tears, I found solace in an unexpected source of support. My three-year-old son had absorbed the mindfulness techniques we had learned together and urged me to focus on my breath, guiding me through deep inhalations and exhalations. In that moment, I realised the immense power of mindfulness and the breath. His reminder to breathe became the catalyst for my journey to recovery. Inspired by the impact of mindfulness and the breath, I began prioritising its practice in my life. Gradually, I ventured outdoors for short walks in the nearby meadows, allowing the beauty of nature to soothe my soul. Though initially cautious due to fear of flare-ups, I persisted, taking one step at a time. Seeking to share the healing power of therapy, I decided to train as a counsellor, drawing from my own experiences. The journey of becoming a counsellor proved transformative, unveiling the realisation that my identity had become synonymous with pain, overshadowing my ability to offer compassion to myself and others. The training enabled me to develop empathy and use my own struggles to support those navigating similar paths. Seeking to further improve my well-being, I delved into the realm of evolutionary health. Collaborating with renowned natural lifestyle coach Tony Riddle, I engaged in natural movement sessions and adopted practices such as barefoot walking and sitting on the floor instead of my sofa. Though initially challenging, these adjustments brought surprising benefits. My hips opened up, lower back pain began to ease, and within months, I progressed to longer walks and even started running again. Immersing myself in nature and incorporating cold water therapy, I continued to witness improvements in both body and mind. Along the way, I embraced Tony’s mantra, “Playing with the edges of discomfort,” allowing me to transcend fear and push past self-imposed limitations. Additionally, I explored the impact of nutrition on pain and inflammation, making dietary changes that further reduced flare-ups. Miraculously, just under a year after first transitioning to ground sitting, I walked the London Marathon. Now, as I reflect on my journey, the progress I have made feels nothing short of miraculous. Friends and family are amazed by my transformation. I have since trained as a natural lifestyle coach, integrating counselling, mindfulness, nutrition, nature therapy, breathwork and movement to empower others on their paths to thriving. I wholeheartedly believe that true healing encompasses both the body and mind, and by addressing both aspects, we can unlock our full potential. Embracing a life without chairs and fully immersing myself in natural living has not only transformed my physical well-being but has also allowed me to break free from the limitations imposed by chronic pain and its impact on my mental health. Today, I guide and support individuals, empowering them to make the changes they feel capable of and to realise their full potential. I acknowledge that my path may not be suitable for everyone, and some may find it socially unconventional. However, I speak from personal experience—once dependent on crutches and a
“Find the cause of autism”
Tim Nicholls, Assistant Director of Policy, Research and Strategy at the National Autistic Society, said: “Autistic people aren’t fodder for a cheap, fake news publicity stunt. We’re stunned by the callous and anti-science way autistic people are talked about by Trump and RFK Jr. Wouldn’t it be better if they could deploy their huge financial resources to making life better for autistic people and their families, and improving society’s understanding of autism? We’ll say it again for those who still haven’t got the message – vaccines don’t cause autism. It’s time governments around the world listen to autistic people, get with the times and join our movement for a global society that works for autistic people. We urge everyone looking to find out more about autism to seek high-quality factual information from our charity’s website www.autism.org.uk.”
Blind Students: They’re Not Just in the Back Row
Gone are the days when blind students were hidden away or excluded. Today, blind students are in the front row—participating in class discussions, working on group projects, and using technology to engage with materials like their sighted peers. How Do They Do It? 1. Accessible Learning Materials: Thanks to digital tools and tech advancements, textbooks and resources are available in braille, audio, and accessible formats. Whether it’s listening to an audiobook, using screen readers, or reading braille, blind students have options for how they access learning material. 2. Tactile Learning Tools: Learning isn’t just about seeing; it’s about touching, feeling, and interacting with the world. Braille, tactile diagrams, and 3D models help blind students understand complex concepts in subjects like math, geography, and science. 3. Tech Integration: With voice-controlled software, apps like Be My Eyes and magnifiers, blind students can access notes, communicate with classmates, and navigate campuses independently. They’re not just using tech; they’re innovating with it. The Role of Educators: Being Inclusive, Not Pitying Teachers play a huge part in breaking down barriers for blind students. The best teachers don’t treat blind students differently—they adapt the curriculum and classroom environment to ensure everyone has an equal chance to succeed. That might mean creating accessible lesson plans, encouraging open communication, and promoting understanding among classmates. The Power of Inclusion When blind students are included, the whole classroom benefits. These students bring unique perspectives, determination, and creativity to their work. They also demonstrate resilience—an invaluable trait for everyone to learn from. Real-Life Examples: Blind Students Succeeding Against the Odds Take the example of Haben Girma, a blind and deaf Harvard Law School graduate who has become a leading advocate for disability rights and accessibility. She proves that with the right tools, blind students can not only succeed—they can change the world. Closer to home, blind students in various school systems take top maths, science, and sports honours. In fact, some schools have specialised programs designed to support blind students in achieving their academic dreams. The Takeaway Blindness doesn’t limit intelligence. It simply means a student learns differently. As more schools and universities implement accessible tools and inclusive strategies, blind students are proving that all it takes is the proper support and mindset for them to thrive in education. Let’s stop viewing blindness as a barrier to learning. With the right tools, resources, and attitudes, blind students are leading the way in breaking down educational barriers—and their future is bright! Find out more To find out more about empowering students with sight loss, visit https://visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com
31% of fintech platforms meet basic web accessibility requirements
A study by TestDevLab analyzed 100 of Europe’s largest fintechs and found that only 31% fully meet basic web accessibility requirements regarding keyboard navigation and focus visibility. 51% of surveyed fintechs met requirements partly, with features that are not entirely accessible, available, or intuitive. The remaining 18% could not be analyzed due to various reasons. The study was conducted in the runup to the establishment of the European Accessibility Act, an EU directive that will come into force on June 28, 2025. It demonstrates that despite the act coming into effect soon, many fintech companies are unprepared. The study reviewed the home pages of multiple banking and fintech companies, examining whether interactive elements were navigable via keyboard. The study reviewed the home pages of multiple banking and fintech companies to ascertain if users can navigate them only using a keyboard – a basic requirement defined by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. The analysis focused on things like how easy it is to move around the page, if each element that receives keyboard focus has a visible focus indicator so that users can understand where they are, whether there are any issues with focus moving to invisible elements, if the keyboard allows users to move through the page in a logical order, and if users can easily close any content that appears over the keyboard focus, such as website popups. The directive aims to ensure that online experiences, such as websites and mobile apps, are available to people with a variety of disabilities. An estimated 100 million Europeans have web accessibility limitations, which is 1 in 4 Europeans. One study showed that accessibility and user improvements can significantly boost a company’s revenue, bringing back approximately €90 euros for every €1 invested. Despite that, many websites do not meet even the basic accessibility standards. Fintech companies are on the cutting edge of technology while simultaneously offering financial services. Their ability to ensure accessible online experiences is crucial to foster financial inclusion. However, with 70% of fintech platforms failing to meet basic accessibility requirements, people with disabilities are being marginalized, thus contributing to a widening tech accessibility gap. https://www.testdevlab.com
Challenges for autistic people on public transport
The National Autistic Society is publishing a report on the barriers autistic people face while travelling on public transport and the impact on their lives
Accessibility improvements at three TransPennine express stations
Customers using Dewsbury, Grimsby Town, and Scunthorpe stations are set to benefit from a series of accessibility improvements, as TransPennine Express (TPE) continues to improve accessibility for everyone using the railway. The changes are being made to make access easier and safer for all customers, including those with reduced mobility, with the works due to be completed by the end of April 2025. At Dewsbury, improvements include the installation of new handrails and resurfacing of the north access ramp from Milton Walk. Handrails on the steps from the ticket hall are also being replaced, along with the installation of new anti-slip stair treads installed on steps to enhance safety. Other accessibility improvements include localised surfacing repairs to bridge landings, replacement cycle tracks to access steps, and new tactile paving to support visually impaired customers. At Grimsby Town, the original footbridge steps are being upgraded with new handrails, while the existing step risers and handrails are being redecorated, improving the station’s appearance. Meanwhile, at Scunthorpe, work is focused on providing a more accessible and user-friendly environment for customers. The accessibility improvements includes installing new handrails and the installation of tactile paving on steps and zebra crossings to aid visually impaired customers. Chris Jeffery, Accessibility Lead at TransPennine Express, said: “We’re always looking at ways to improve the accessibility of our stations to ensure that all customers can travel with confidence. “These improvements at Dewsbury, Grimsby Town, and Scunthorpe will make a real difference for those who use these stations regularly, making access easier and safer for everyone.” TPE is committed to enhancing the customer experience across its network, with these latest upgrades forming part of a wider programme of station improvements. https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/
Blind and partially sighted people left behind in AI revolution
Blind and partially sighted people risk being shut out of the AI revolution, a leading diplomat has warned.Dr Walton Aubrey Webson, the first visually impaired UN Ambassador, will tell a major tech conference in Glasgow that AI models should have accessibility built into them from the start.Without proper safeguards, they could “inadvertently perpetuate biases” which exclude blind and partially sighted people, leaving them further behind, he is expected to say.The Inclusive Design for Sustainability conference, organised by RNIB Scotland, will explore how cutting-edge technology is transforming the lives of people with sight loss worldwide.Opening the conference today [MON], Dr Webson, who represents Antigua and Barbuda at the UN, will call for tech firms to prioritise accessibility from the start.He will warn that AI systems trained on biased or incomplete data risk deepening inequalities rather than removing barriers.More than a billion people worldwide have some form of sight disorder, and that number is growing. AI has the potential to transform daily life for people with sight loss, from navigation to accessing information. But without accessibility at its core, it could create new barriers instead of breaking them down, Dr Webson will say. The conference at Glasgow Science Centre will showcase the latest advances in AI, with demonstrations of cutting-edge technology such as robotic guide dogs and smart canes.Sponsored by Google and Meta, one of the key sessions will explore how AI can be harnessed to make everyday life more inclusive for those with disabilities.Dr Webson, who lost his sight as a child due to a rare cancer, will highlight how technology has long helped blind people navigate the world more independently.While innovations such as screen readers and adaptive devices have transformed lives, he will warn that AI revolution risks deepening inequalities if accessibility is not prioritised.He will call for stronger regulations and industry standards to ensure accessibility is embedded from the start.Dr Webson will also raise concerns about privacy and security, warning that AI tools often rely on personal data.He will stress the need for safeguards so users know how their data is used and can make informed choices. Dr Webson is expected to say:“AI algorithms can inadvertently perpetuate biases if they are trained on datasets that do not adequately represent the diversity of persons with disabilities.“This can lead to the development of technologies that do not effectively serve all users.“Ensuring diverse representation in training data is essential to creating fair and equitable AI solutions.“Implementing robust data protection measures and obtaining informed consent is crucial to ensuring that users feel safe and secure while using assistive technologies.“Major technology companies must seriously incorporate inclusive design into their innovation and product development processes.“We must view inclusive design not as an afterthought, but as a fundamental aspect of technological development.“Together, we can create a world where technology is genuinely a wheel of opportunity for all.” RNIB Scotland is hosting the conference as part of its mission to ensure everyone with sight loss has access to the technology they need to live independently.Around 183,000 people in Scotland and more than two million across the UK have significant sight loss, and that number is expected to rise.With an ageing population and increasing rates of conditions like diabetes, the number of people affected could double within 20 years. James Adams, director of RNIB Scotland, said: “It’s a privilege to welcome Dr Webson, who has been a strong advocate for the rights of visually impaired people and those with other disabilities, alongside other experts at our conference.“Their perspectives are invaluable in guiding us towards a future where technology is truly inclusive.“The rapid advancements in technology offer us a unique opportunity to address exclusion and improve accessibility for those with sight loss. “With the number of people affected by sight loss expected to rise significantly, it’s more important than ever that we prioritise inclusivity in the development of new tech.“We must work together to ensure that no one is left behind in the AI revolution.“Only then can we create a world where technology opens doors for all. https://www.rnib.org.uk/your-eyes/navigating-sight-loss/registering-as-sight-impaired/the-criteria-for-certification
New Enhancements to Award-Winning DoodleMaths App
Global edtech leader Discovery Education today announced new product enhancements to its award-winning DoodleMaths app. Providing self-paced, personalised maths practice from EYFS to KS3, DoodleMaths is trusted and enjoyed by thousands of teachers and pupils across the UK. Part of the Discovery Education family of solutions, DoodleMaths is a research-based, curriculum aligned digital learning app that boosts student skills and confidence. Designed by teachers , DoodleMaths is filled with interactive exercises that continuously adjust to the unique needs of children, creating a fun learning environment that builds numeracy skills for the classroom and beyond. DoodleLearning’s product team has worked with teachers and education experts to develop the new enhancements to DoodleMaths, making the app even more intuitive, interactive and accessible. These enhancements include: ● New, interactive lessons New three-part concept lessons deliver a ‘Connect, Discover and Explore’ lesson structure. Pupils are encouraged to consolidate learning, discover new skills and put learning into practice by engaging with interactive, real-world, in-app tasks. ● New digital manipulatives and modelsNew interactive tools give pupils a hands-on learning experience that encourages deeper number sense and understanding. DoodleMaths now also includes more images to boost pupil engagement and new animations to bring concepts to life. ● New accessibility updatesNew text-to-speech audio (TTS) enables users to play single lines of text while a new glossary helps pupils to instantly access definitions of unfamiliar words. In addition, a new approach to UI design enables learners with low vision and colour blindness to distinguish text and non-text elements. Hundreds of questions within the app have also been redesigned to align with accessibility best practice. ● New curriculum designDoodleMaths now covers even more of the primary maths curriculum – particularly at EYFS. Shorter, snappier lessons also enable pupils to complete a Doodle session and earn rewards in as little as ten minutes. Steve Richards, UK Product Manager at DoodleLearning said, “These new enhancements and updates to DoodleMaths make it even easier for pupils – including those with differing abilities – to access high-quality learning experiences that support increased achievement. We are committed to ensuring every pupil using DoodleLearning can progress at their own pace and grow in confidence, and we look forward unveiling even more updates to our award-winning suite of apps very soon.” Designed to create every child a personalised learning experience tailored to their needs, DoodleLearning also helps to boost pupil confidence and ability. A study by the University of Bath showed that children who use DoodleMaths for 20 minutes a week are four times less likely to experience learning loss than their peers. Research also found that using Doodle ‘little and often’ doubles a child’s rate of progression. Further updates to DoodleLearning are in the works and scheduled for release throughout 2025/6. For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions, visit www.discoveryeducation.co.uk and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.