LEGOLAND Windsor awarded for autism-friendly service
– LEGOLAND Windsor has become the first UK theme park to achieve a national charity award in recognition of its work to provide an autism-friendly environment and inclusive customer service for autistic people. LEGOLAND Windsor, in Berkshire, has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Friendly Award, which supports businesses to be more inclusive for autistic people through providing accessible customer services, information and environments. The award recognises the measures LEGOLAND Windsor has in place to support autistic people and their families, including autism training for the park’s staff and reasonable adjustments including: access passes for those who are not able to queue for long times; sensory spaces; ear defenders; flashcards and communication cards; and accessible information about the park. At least one in 100 people are autistic, which means more than 700,000 people in the UK, but many autistic people and their families still struggle to access community spaces, businesses and shops. By meeting the standards set out in the Autism Friendly Award, businesses can ensure they offer an industry approved autism-friendly environment. The award can be adopted by any customer facing organisation, including businesses in the retail, transport, arts, entertainment and leisure industries. Kate McBirnie, Global Head of Accessibility at Merlin Entertainments, said: “At Merlin Entertainments, accessibility means more than just open doors — it means building an inclusive environment where every guest can explore, connect, and fully enjoy the magic of our experiences. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to make unforgettable memories, and we’re proud to play a part in making that a reality. Receiving this accreditation is an important milestone for the LEGOLAND Windsor team, and we’re deeply grateful to the National Autistic Society for their support and recognition. But just like any great LEGO build, we’re not stopping here — we’re excited to keep adding new bricks to make our Resort even more inclusive, welcoming, and magical for everyone.” Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation and Projects at the National Autistic Society, said: “It’s fantastic that LEGOLAND Windsor is the first theme park in the UK to achieve the Autism Friendly Award and we congratulate the team on all their hard work to create a more autism-friendly place. It’s so important for theme parks, and all public leisure spaces, to be more inclusive for autistic people and their families, so that everyone can be supported to enjoy a fun day out. “There are lots of changes venues can make, such as autism training for all staff, sensory rooms, clear signs and information, and a range of communication formats. We hope many more theme parks follow LEGOLAND Windsor’s lead and show up for autistic people by becoming a more autism-friendly space, to help create a society that truly works for autistic people. We have lots of information about our Autism Friendly Award and how to provide an autism-friendly environment on our website www.autism.org.uk.” Rachael, Chair of the National Autistic Society’s South Buckinghamshire Branch, said: “Our members find theme parks too busy and noisy and the queues can cause distress and overwhelm. Having a theme park on our doorstep who take in to account the additional needs of our members and their families means we can all hope to visit LEGOLAND Windsor feeling safe, knowing they will support us through our trips there.” The National Autistic Society’s Autism Accreditation Programme is the UK’s only autism-specific quality assurance programme of support and development for all those providing services to autistic people. For more information about LEGOLAND Windsor, visit: https://www.legoland.co.uk/ For more information about the Autism Friendly Award, visit the National Autistic Society website.
Tackle Everyday Barriers to Mobility
Mobility in Motion is proud to announce a new partnership with REMAP, the national charity that designs and builds custom assistive equipment to improve the quality of life for people who experience short- or long-term disability through infirmity, illness, or aging. Together, the organisations aim to push the boundaries of inclusive mobility, ensuring that more people have access to the tools they need to live independently and confidently. “Mobility doesn’t stop at the car door,” said Matt Fieldhouse, Managing Director of Mobility in Motion. “Our customers often face barriers in many areas of life. That’s why we’re so excited to work with REMAP. Their bespoke approach to solving mobility challenges fits perfectly with our mission to offer solutions that put the person first, whether they’re driving, travelling, working, or just living their day-to-day lives.” REMAP’s team of skilled volunteer engineers has been creating one-of-a-kind equipment for over 60 years, helping thousands of individuals with disabilities overcome obstacles that off-the-shelf products simply can’t address. With this partnership, the charity is poised to extend its reach and impact by getting in front of Mobility in Motion’s customers, ambassadors, and community partners. “We believe in practical, person-centred innovation,” said Sue Boyes, CEO of REMAP. “Working with Mobility in Motion gives us the opportunity to let a wider audience know about our services and how we can support them. This partnership not only helps us reach more individuals in need, but also raises the visibility of our work, which we hope will inspire more people to volunteer their skills and join our incredible network of engineers across the UK” In the coming months, the two organisations will launch a series of collaborative initiatives designed to raise awareness of available adaptations, share inspiring stories from the disability community, and offer personalised support for individuals navigating mobility challenges. These efforts will be grounded in a shared belief: that every person deserves the freedom to move through life with confidence, comfort, and control. About Mobility in MotionLaunched in 2023, Mobility in Motion is transforming automotive accessibility through an inclusive, customer-first approach. By offering tailored solutions, expert advice, and partnering with top manufacturers, the company ensures that travel is safe and accessible for all, while working hard to promote visibility for underrepresented groups in the mobility sector. www.mobilityinmotion.com About REMAPREMAP is a national charity that helps disabled people achieve greater independence and quality of life through bespoke engineering. Volunteers across the UK work with clients and professionals to design and build customised equipment, free of charge, to meet individual needs that cannot be solved by commercially available products.www.remap.org.uk
Superhero Tri Returns
Superhero Tri Returns and Paralympians Turn Out in Force to Support Everyday Superheroes Superhero Tri, powered by Marvel, returns to Dorney Lake, Windsor on Saturday August 16, 2025 A stellar line-up of paralympic sporting heroes who medalled in Paris have signed up to support the 2025 Superhero Tri, powered by Marvel – the UK’s only mass participation sports event for people with disabilities. Among them Paralympic, World and European table tennis champion Will Bayley, Paralympic and World rowing champion Laura Sugar and Paralympic and World cycling champion James Ball will take their place at the start line alongside over 5,000 ‘everyday superheroes’. Now in its eighth year, the Superhero Tri sees ‘Sidekicks’ helping their loved ones complete the course, giving families and friends the opportunity to experience the thrill of participation together. Established by Paralympian Sophia Warner in 2016, Superhero Tri is dedicated to the 16.1 million* people across the UK living with disabilities and offers a choice of three distances: Participants can fly solo and take on all three stages – swim, cycle and push/run – or share the fun with their sidekick teammates to tow, push or pull them around the course. Gadgets, gizmos and costumes galore Absolutely anything goes when it comes to adaptive equipment, gadgets and gizmos to power people round the course. From wheelchairs mounted on surfboards to side-by-side trikes and buggies hitched to bicycles, participants are encouraged to use their imagination. Participants can take as long as they wish with whatever kit they need and Marvel super hero outfits are strongly encouraged with adults, children and even animal supporters wearing masks, capes and costumes. “The Superhero Tri removes all barriers to participation and gives everyone with a disability the thrill of a mass-participation sports event,” says Sophia Warner, Paralympian and founder of the Superhero Tri. “Competing alongside their families and friends, the community spirit shines through as people come together to cover the course. We have families returning year after year to feel the excitement of the day and enjoy being the centre of attention as they show off their amazing sports skills and super hero outfits.” As well as completing the Superhero Tri, visitors will have the unique opportunity to complete their Marvel Avengers Training alongside super heroes Spider-Man and Thor, helping inspire participants to unleash their inner superpowers. Deborah Armstrong, Senior Vice President, Disney Advertising EMEA and Country Manager UK & Ireland said: “Every year it’s fantastic to see all the superheroes have so much fun in a fully inclusive environment at Superhero Tri. Our storytelling and much-loved characters continue to be a force for good, inspiring people to unleash their inner superhero and experience the power of sport. We’re wishing everyone competing the best of luck this year and can’t wait to see all the incredible outfits!” Another highlight will see Clare Balding CBE – a long time Superhero Series supporter who hasn’t missed an event – bestowing the honour of a Golden Cape on seven spectacular Superheroes in recognition of their determination, community spirit or fundraising achievements. Celebrity Team Captains Among the participants will be 30 small teams, each captained by a disability athlete or advocate. Bringing skills as diverse as rowing, cycling, swimming, dressage and shot put, table tennis, wheelchair basketball and paratriathlon, there are 20 celebrity captains new to Superhero Tri this year. This includes Paralympic, World and European table tennis champion Will Bayley, Paralympic, World, European and Commonwealth swimming champion Maisie Summers-Newton MBE, Paralympic, World, Commonwealth and European paratriathlon champion Dave Ellis, Paralympic swimming medallist and European champion Callie-Ann Warrington, Multi-Paralympic swimming and paratriathlon medallist Claire Cashmore and influencers Hannah and Becky Cheetham. Lining up alongside them are 10 Superhero Tri team captains returning to Dorney Lake including comedian and TV presenter Alex Brooker, sports reporter Jordan Jarrett-Bryan and chef and TV presenter Briony May Williams. “Our Celebrity Team captains bring excitement and inspiration to the day,” continues Sophia. “This year we have 20 para-athletes who medalled at Paris 2024 joining us. Most of them were in the crowd at London 2012 and 12 years on achieved their dream, fulfilling the legacy of the London games. Superhero Tri is my legacy for everyday superheroes who I know will be inspired by seeing their Paralympian heroes in action.” Super Supporters Supporting the Superhero Tri headline partner Disney are partners DHL, Everyone Active, Invacare, Pfizer, Salutem, Staysure, Swim England and the Superhero Sport Foundation whose invaluable support make Superhero Tri possible. Find out more and enter here: https://superheroseries.co.uk/superhero-tri-2025
AI Meets Accessibility
As Generative AI tools become more widely available, their potential to support disabled people is starting to receive long-overdue attention. While much of the public conversation has focused on productivity and automation benefits more widely, these technologies are quietly reshaping accessibility, offering meaningful support for people who have historically been excluded from full participation in digital life. More than 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability, according to the World Health Organisation. In the UK, that figure is estimated at 16 million, or around a quarter of the population. Despite advances in inclusive design, many digital services remain difficult to access, especially for people who rely on screen readers, need simplified content, or process information differently. AI isn’t a simple silver bullet, but it is helping to bridge these gaps. And, as with any tool, the way it is applied will determine whether it delivers real progress or simply reinforces existing barriers, as Léonie Watson, Co-Founder at TetraLogical explains. A new way to engage with informationFor many neurodivergent people, consuming large volumes of information can be a real challenge. Long reports, academic and administrative documents are often difficult to process due to issues with focus, language, or executive functioning. Generative AI offers ways to simplify this experience. It can help by condensing documents into clear summaries, rephrasing ideas into plain language, and responding to follow-up questions to clarify areas that weren’t fully understood in the first instance. This turns reading into an active process where users set the pace and shape the content around their own needs. In an era of constant overstimulation and information overloads, this kind of personalisation is fast becoming essential for many. Improving access for blind and low vision usersPeople with visual impairments and low vision face persistent barriers online, especially when content isn’t designed with accessibility in mind. PDFs are a notoriously common problem: many are scanned images or contain layouts that are inaccessible for screen readers. AI tools can now extract meaning from these formats, summarising content and presenting it in more digestible forms. AI also enables ad hoc image description. Whether it’s a photo, or a diagram with no alt text, users can request a detailed summary of what is shown. This extends to everyday content such as restaurant menus, infographics and social media posts, or, put simply, areas where accessibility is often overlooked. Seeing the world in real timeSome of the most exciting developments are happening in real-time visual description. AI tools built into smart glasses or mobile apps can now analyse a live video feed to provide instant feedback about the user’s surroundings. For blind or low vision users, this could mean identifying objects in a room, reading signs while navigating, or simply having a better understanding of what is going on around them in a social setting. There are still challenges here, particularly around battery life, privacy and consistency. But as the technology improves, so too does its potential to support greater independence. Opportunities and Limitations Despite their promise, AI tools should not be seen as a replacement for inclusive design. Nor should their outputs be taken at face value. AI systems can and do make mistakes: image descriptions can include hallucinations with confident but incorrect details, and document summaries may contain factual errors or even fabricated content. This means users must approach AI outputs critically and treat AI as a helpful assistant, not a final authority. For some, this adds a layer of digital literacy to the accessibility equation. For designers and developers, it’s a reminder that AI should support, but not sidestep, the core principles of accessibility. Designing with care The role of AI in accessibility is likely to grow, but only if it’s developed and applied with care. Recent UK research found that over a third of disabled people are concerned they will be left behind as AI becomes more widely used in healthcare and public services. Many also fear that if disabled people are not involved in the design process, these tools will fail to meet their needs. When the dust settles on the hype around AI, it will not be just about what this technology can do, but also about who it is built with, and how it is made available. Used thoughtfully, AI can support greater equity. But it must be developed alongside a commitment to accessible standards, inclusive practices, and real user involvement. Put simply, inclusion doesn’t happen by accident. It takes planning, listening, and a willingness to challenge assumptions. AI can help open doors, but it’s up to us to make sure everyone is invited in.
National disability charity Sense, said:
James Watson-O’Neill, Chief Executive of the national disability charity Sense, said: “Today’s vote in Parliament is deeply distressing. By choosing to advance this bill, MPs have voted for measures the government’s data say will push 150,000 disabled people into poverty. This is not the right way to reform our welfare system — it’s a move that has already caused significant fear and anxiety within the disabled people’s community. “We’re incredibly grateful to all those who spoke out against the bill. Their efforts helped secure important government concessions, which mean some disabled people will retain the support they rely on. However, this creates a deeply unfair two-tier system — protecting some while leaving new claimants facing serious financial hardship. And the government’s latest concession, to delay the tightening of the criteria for PIP, doesn’t change the fact that it will eventually become harder for new claimants to access this vital benefit. “Looking ahead, we urge the government to immediately reconsider their proposal to remove the health element of Universal Credit from young people until they turn 22. We also want to work constructively with them to expand the eligibility criteria for additional support for those who will never be able to work, to ensure no one is left behind.” https://www.sense.org.uk/
Support for disabled drivers with exclusive car-selling offer
Carwow is proud to announce a new partnership with Purpl, the membership scheme supporting disabled drivers with exclusive discounts and deals. As part of this partnership, Purpl members will receive £115 in Amazon vouchers when they sell their car through Carwow’s ‘Sell My Car’ service. In the UK, there are 16.1 million disabled people, and living with a disability costs around £1,010 extra each month on average. In 2023, 60% of disabled adults aged 17 or over held a full driving licence – a clear sign that accessible, fair options for selling and replacing vehicles are vital. Carwow has helped drivers sell more than 230,000 vehicles directly to car dealers on its ‘Sell My Car’ service . On average, sellers achieve £1,000 more compared to part exchange valuations, highlighting the value and efficiency of the platform. The selling process through Carwow has been designed for ease and transparency. Customers simply provide a few details to receive instant, free car valuations with no hidden fees. A nationwide network of more than 5,500 dealers then compete in online auctions to offer the best price. Once a deal is agreed, the winning dealer arranges free vehicle collection at the seller’s convenience and issues payment directly to their bank account. With this new partnership, Purpl members will benefit from a free and fast car selling process, a great price for their old car, as well as a £115 Amazon voucher to spend however they choose. Sally Foote, Chief Commercial Officer at Carwow said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Purpl, delivering extra value to disabled drivers looking to change their cars. Selling a car should be simple and stress-free. We understand the independence that driving can bring and we’re glad to give Purple members an additional boost to their everyday budgets.” Georgina Colman, Founder of Purpl said: “I’m so proud that we’ve been able to partner with Carwow to bring this exclusive deal to the disabled community. When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, I had to adjust to a new lifestyle, and driving was vital to my independence. I know firsthand that mobility needs can change in an instant, and not all disabled people are eligible for Motability, so it’s important to be able to buy or sell cars as needed. This offer not only helps our members get the best price for their car, but also puts an extra £115 in their pocket – a small but hopefully meaningful contribution towards the higher cost of living that disabled people face every day.” To learn more, please visit the Carwow and Purpl websites.
Chief Executive of the national disability charity Sense, said:
James Watson-O’Neill, Chief Executive of the national disability charity Sense, said: “The concessions announced by the government on the upcoming welfare bill are significant and positive, yet fall short of a fair deal for disabled people. “It’s a relief that many disabled people won’t lose their benefits who previously feared they would. In particular we’re happy to see the government reverse its decision to cut Universal Credit in real terms for disabled people assessed as having the greatest barriers to work. This decision is testament to the power of people speaking out against these unfair cuts, and we’re so grateful to all our supporters who took the time to contact their MP on this issue. “However, the government’s proposals create a deeply unfair two-tier system where two disabled people with the same needs would get different benefits depending on when they started needing benefits. This is not right. We’ve also heard from parents of young disabled people with complex needs who are still deeply anxious about what this will mean for their children’s future. “Disabled people should be included fully and from the start in any efforts to reform the welfare system, and we’d like to work with the government on this. However, given the significant issues with the current bill, we urge MPs to listen to the voices of disabled people and vote against it on Tuesday.” https://www.sense.org.uk/
Support dog Alfred’s a Great help for arthritis patient Leah
Leah Marshall was just 13 when she became unwell from arthritis and got her support dog. While most teenagers were enjoying fun activities like shopping and cinema trips, Leah was often sleeping. Not only was she battling the painful condition, which causes stiffness in joints, she also had chronic fatigue. Now aged 37 and on five different types of medication, her illness has impacted her everyday life. That’s where her support dog, Alfred, comes in. Leah and her loveable Australian Labradoodle have just graduated as a Support Dogs partnership.The four-year-old support dog has been trained by the national charity to pick up items Leah drops, load and unload the washing machine, fill a basket with clothes, pass clothes for Leah to put on the washing line and to help her to get undressed. He can also find Leah’s mobile phone and keys, fetch help, empty shopping bags, take groceries from supermarket shelves, fill up shopping baskets and pass items to Leah at waist level. “I’m always in pain, so for Alfred to be able to pick things up for me, it’s an instant relief,” said Leah, who lives in Christchurch, near Bournemouth. “Because of the arthritis, I struggle with exercise. I do exercise but the exercise I’ve done over the last 20 years has been limited, so I’ve not got my core strength like I used to, and I struggle with my back. “My arthritis can be different from one day to the next – one day Alfred can help me take my socks off, if my back is really bad, or if my hands or ankles are really sore. “Just being able to pick stuff up off the floor for me, where I would normally struggle, and having Alfred trained is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.” And Alfred has helped to take some of the strain from Leah’s husband, Rob, helping her to take her socks, jacket or shoes off, picking things up and helping with the laundry. As a youngster, it was difficult for Leah to understand what was wrong, as medics initially assumed it was just growing pains. As she left school for college, she couldn’t get out of bed due to the pain, but with sheer determination, she got to class. Leah was eventually diagnosed at 17 and she was prescribed medication, but the pain wouldn’t shift. “I couldn’t even stand on my own two feet without being in horrific pain,” said Leah. “I didn’t have the typical teenage years of spending time with friends and socialising, that was harder than anything else. I spent most of those years at home sleeping because of the level of pain.”Aged 19, she started her job at Dulux Decorator Centre, where she still works as a cluster manager. But she needed to sleep in her lunch breaks as she was so exhausted, and she struggled to walk and stand for long periods of time. But as her condition prevailed and it impacted her mental health, she looked up Support Dogs. Leah assumed the charity only helped wheelchair users, and later got Alfred as a pet dog. When she discovered Support Dogs’ help extended beyond wheelchair users, she applied for training. Fast forward two years and the pair are thriving together. Support Dogs trains and provides assistance dogs to help people with a range of debilitating conditions, including autism in children, and epilepsy or physical disability in adults. To find out more about the charity’s incredible work, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
National award goes to Northampton teacher
National award goes to Northampton teacher for inspiring children with severe mental conditions A special education needs (SEN) teacher who has dedicated his entire career to helping inspire young people with severe mental health conditions has won a national teaching award. Ian Bradley has worked at the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) College based at St Andrew’s Healthcare for 18 years. Chosen from thousands of nominees, Ian has been named a silver winner at the Pearson National Teaching Awards, within the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Inclusive Practice category. Now, the 53-year-old will go through to the next stage where he is in with the chance of winning the prestigious Gold Award. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year. Ian was recognised for introducing the young patients at St Andrew’s to many outdoor activities, such as climbing, horse riding, mountain walking and camping, which they may not have had access to at mainstream schools or hospitals. St Andrew’s CAMHS College Headteacher Peter Rainford said: “Many of our students are grappling with complex mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or attachment disorder, additionally many of them will have a history of suicide, extreme self-harm and trauma. They will all have struggled in mainstream school, and by the time they come to us, they are done with being educated. “But Ian doesn’t just create an inclusive and hopeful classroom—he creates a space that transforms lives. His maths lessons are built on therapeutic trust, high expectations, and joyful discovery. “Beyond the classroom, Ian champions learning through experience. Whether it’s an expedition, a climbing session, or a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award challenge, he uses these as stepping stones for personal growth. These activities help students develop resilience, self-belief, and life skills that reach far beyond their time at the College. For these young people, Ian gives them the same chances as others their age.” Ian is one of 94 teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions recognised as a silver winner in this year’s National award for the lasting impact they have on shaping the lives of young people. The announcement follows tributes from celebrities, students and schools across the UK as they say thank you to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day. On receiving the award, Ian said: “I am extremely honoured and humbled to receive this silver prize. I’m proud of the work I’ve done and the students tell me I’ve made a difference to their lives, which is enough of a reward for me. It’s a privilege working with the young people in our care and hopefully we’ll have more adventures in the future.” Celebrating the whole education community, National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established more than 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day. Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom – offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come. That’s why National Thank a Teacher Day is an important opportunity to pause and celebrate all that they do. “I’m also delighted to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners. Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary. Thank you for the difference you make every single day.” Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation. Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact. Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Silver winners!” Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said “On Thank a Teacher Day, I want to celebrate the remarkable professionals who are the backbone of our education system. Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child’s education. “I’ve experienced first-hand how a great teacher can make all the difference. Teachers don’t just deliver lessons – they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed. For this incredible commitment to our nation’s future, we owe our teachers our deepest gratitude.” https://www.stah.org