This year's theme - Disability, Politics and Democracy
UK Disability History Month provides an opportunity to explore disability history, rights, representation and lived experience. It’s also a chance to reflect on how we can create a more accessible and inclusive NTU community all year round.
The theme for this year is Disability, Politics and Democracy, which explores the relationship between disability, political participation and democratic life. It is a moment to think about the barriers disabled people have had to break down to be heard and the part disabled people have had in political and social change.
We are committed to creating a positive and inclusive environment for disabled staff and students to thrive and be heard at NTU. UK Disability History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of disabled people, learn from their lived experiences and reflect on how we can continue to remove barriers to participation and belonging.
Disability History Month coincides with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, a global observance that promotes the rights and wellbeing of disabled people and highlights the physical, legal and attitudinal barriers that can limit participation. Together, these observances encourage us to recognise progress, raise awareness of the challenges that remain and reaffirm our commitment to building a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming NTU community.
Student stories and projects
Mirror ball art raises awareness of how disabled people can feel on public transport
A fine art student has created an exhibition to communicate how disabled people can feel ‘like a mirror ball’ when using powerchairs on public transport.
Showcase 2026 Student Spotlight: Annie Lattimore
Returning to learning: Supporting mature students at NTU Mansfield
Cheryl Hibbard and Vicky Wright are mature students whose experiences reflect the determination and commitment often seen among those returning to education. Alongside their studies, they support Little Miracles Nottinghamshire, a charity supporting children and young people with SEND and life-limiting conditions, demonstrating the positive impact of disability advocacy and community support.
Year-round recognition
Celebration and awareness days, weeks, and months provide valuable opportunities to learn and reflect. However, our commitment to EDI extends beyond these dedicated dates.
Explore the events, opportunities and resources available throughout the year that continue to raise awareness and support the themes recognised through our awareness calendar.
HealthyNTU Den Social Pizza Party
Wednesday 23 September, 12pm - 2pm
- Audience: Students
- Location: City, Newton Level 0, just off the atrium
Join the HealthyNTU team for the first City Den Social of the year. This event will include free pizza refreshments, games, and activities and a chance to learn about other opportunities throughout the year. Drop in any time between 12 and 2.
Thursday 24 September, 12pm - 2pm
- Audience: Staff and Students
- Location: Brackenhurst Library
Join the HealthyNTU team and therapy dogs Paddy and Gunnie for a relaxing afternoon of dog therapy. During this event you will have the opportunity to chill out with pet trained Labrador therapy dogs Paddy and Gunnie. Drop in any time between 12 and 2pm.
- Audience: Staff
(link requires NTU staff login)
Supporting a disabled colleague long term health conditions- December 2025- Meeting Recording | ntu
- Audience: Staff
The UK Disability History Month website provides a range of resources exploring disability history and the experiences of disabled people.
The resource archive includes material covering subjects such as disability and employment, children and young people, health and wellbeing, hidden impairments, access, leadership, resistance, culture, music, art, language and independent living.
Staff networks and student societies
Staff networks
If you're a member of NTU staff, you can join one of our staff networks, which provide opportunities to connect with colleagues and help shape a more inclusive university community.
Examples include:
- Disability Employee Network (DEN)
- Networks supporting a range of protected characteristics and communities (link requires NTU staff login)
Student societies
If you're an NTU student, you may be interested in joining one of the Students' Union societies that support disabled and neurodivergent students, including:
These societies offer opportunities to meet new people, share experiences, build peer support networks, and take part in events and activities throughout the year.
You can find out more about student societies through the Nottingham Trent Students' Union website.
Support available at NTU
Student Disability Inclusion Services
If you have a disability, specific learning difference, are neurodivergent, have a mental health condition, or a long-term health issue, NTU’s Disability and Inclusion Services are here to provide tailored support to help you succeed.
Our inclusive community
At NTU, we're committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment where disabled students can thrive. Find out more about the support and opportunities available.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at NTU
NTU is dedicated to working to strategically advance equality, diversity and inclusion, and to support a culture of engagement underpinned by respect.
As part of Disability History Month, we reaffirm our dedication to creating an inspirational and inclusive learning and working environment where every member of our community can thrive and achieve their potential.
This month provides an important opportunity to celebrate the contributions of disabled people and to strengthen our shared responsibility in building a culture where everyone feels valued, empowered, and able to participate fully in university life.
If you have a general question for the EDI team at NTU, please email us.
Get involved on social media
Tag us with the hashtag #DisabilityHistoryMonth to share your involvement on social media.
If you would like to advertise an event, please contact EDI@ntu.ac.uk.