> Hi! My colleague Ben Jones has forwarded to me the message about the above, as I take the lead for disability in terms of public health in Liverpool.
>
> In Liverpool, we take a barrier removal approach to disability. This means that we describe disability as a form of social oppression, and the way to tackle is it by changing society so that disabled people are no longer excluded from mainsteam life. This is based on the Social Model of Disability, which has been developed by disabled people, as opposed to the medical (or individual) model of disability which was developed by professionals.
>
> In terms of demographic data, I do not know of any accurate data. As you say the census data is not very helpful, especially so because it is based n the medical model. The question it asks could honestly be answered `no` by a disabled person who does not have a longterm illness (eg someone born without arms) on the basis that it is society that disables them, not their impairment.
>
> Demographic data, even if it were available it would not be very helpful in terms of addressing the disabling barriers in society. For example, knowing that x% of a population has a visual impairment does not give any detail about how to overcome the barriers that they face. So to access information some might use Braille, some might use audiotape, some might prefer large print etc.
>
> I prefer to move way from counting the numbers of disabled people and instead identify disabling barriers. So in terms of the example above, it would be useful to know how much information about a particular service (eg cervical screening) is provided only in print. Then take steps to ensure that it is readily available in alternative formats and media.
>
> Attached is a copy of a letter I sent to the British Medical Journal, which illustrates some of these issues.
>
> If I can be of further help, please do get in touch.
>
> > <<BMJ 1999.doc>>
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