Develop your disability awareness this Disability History Month
Published: 14/11/2024
Today marks the start of Disability History Month (DHM)—an opportunity to learn about the experiences, achievements and challenges of people with disabilities, and how we can work together to ensure equality and inclusion.
This year’s theme, ‘Livelihood and Employment’, spotlights factors shaping disabled individuals' employment and the barriers they can face in the workforce. As a student, understanding these challenges can deepen your awareness of inclusion, both in university life and as you enter future workplaces.
What’s happening this month?
We have a range of events designed to raise awareness, encourage discussion, and help you connect with others:
Reflections on Disability, University and Employment: A live panel event
Tuesday 3 December, 4–5:30 pm, N48, Newton building, City Campus
Join us for an inspiring panel event featuring four speakers who will share their experiences of studying and working with a disability. You'll learn more about University support options, gain strategies for disclosure and adjustments, and hear personal insights on navigating education and employment. Please email rise@ntu.ac.uk if you have any access requirements ahead of this event and we'll do our best to support you.
Arkwright building to light up in purple
Tuesday 3 December, 5:30 pm, Arkwright building, City Campus
Following the panel event, we’ll be lighting up the Arkwright building on City Campus in purple to recognise International Day of People with Disabilities. We look forward to seeing you there!
Exploring Barriers to Justice for Neurodivergent People
Wednesday 4 December, 12–1 pm, online
In this session, guest speakers, Dr. Alison Jobe (Durham University) and Dr. Helen Williams (University of Sunderland), discuss the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face in the justice system, particularly after experiencing sexual violence.
Lunchtime JAM sessions
Multiple dates at City, Clifton, and Brackenhurst campuses
Hosted by NTU’s Neurodivergent Society, these Just A Minute (JAM) sessions are casual meetups for you to relax, chat, or take a break. They’re designed to be welcoming and inclusive spaces—whether you want to connect or just enjoy a bit of downtime.
Hear stories from our NTU community
We’ll also be sharing personal stories from students, alumni, and staff, which give an insight into how their disability has shaped their career choices and experience of employment.
Having a disability has definitely shaped my career in raising awareness of primary Raynaud's syndrome and it has formed my desire to specialise in neurodiversity.
Rebecca Cassidy, Emotional Wellbeing Practitioner and NTU alumni
Disability support and resources
If you, or someone you know, has a physical disability, learning difference, autism spectrum diagnosis or long-term health or mental health condition, Disability and Inclusion Services at NTU can provide support. Visit StudentHub to find out how you can connect with our Student Support Services team to discuss your support needs.
Additionally, if you need help sharing your support needs for placements, interviews, or in your studies, our Employability team can help you feel more confident and empowered when discussing your disability and asking for adjustments. Visit NTU Employability Online to find out more.