7th August 2020
Here at Falcon Housing Association C.I.C (FHA), we work hard to be a supportive force for those living with disabilities, particular with our specialist learning disability supported housing program. While public perception towards those with disabilities is changing for the better all the time, we sadly do see a number of myths that seem to endure. In this post, we’ll aim to dispel some of them once and for all.
1: All disabilities can be seen
This is one of the biggest myths surrounding disabilities. Many people have hidden disabilities, from mental illnesses, to conditions such as epilepsy. It doesn’t mean that those affected can’t live long, happy and successful lives – but it does caution all of us to be aware and considerate of others.
2: Disabilities can be cured
Many disabilities are medical conditions, and some may have been present at birth. As such, some disabilities are lifelong conditions. However, there are lots of ways to help those living with a disability to manage it; one way is through specialist learning disability supported housing, which allows disabled people to live an independent life while having the support of any adjustments and adaptations they may need, such as living in a converted building.
3: There aren’t many disabled people in the UK
Scope, the disability charity, estimates that over 14 million people in the UK have a disability – it’s estimated that there are around 66 million people in the UK in total, which puts the figure at almost 5% of the population. Disabled people are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as non-disabled people and poverty is higher too, with 26% of working-age disabled people living in poverty. That’s why we are absolutely committed to specialist learning disability supported housing.
4: Disabled people are widely accepted by society
There’s much to be positive about in today’s world; for instance, 21-year-old model Madeline Stuart, who has Down’s syndrome, has advocated for inclusiveness in modelling and proudly walked New York Fashion Week, while disabled comedian and journalist, Alex Brooker, has been a co-host on the Channel 4 show, The Last Leg, since 2012.
However, Scope shares that 1 in 3 disabled people feel there is disability prejudice – and similarly, 1 in 3 see those who are disabled as being ‘less productive’ than non-disabled people.
5. The word ‘disability’ is rude or negative
It’s crucial to be as respectful as possible when referring to any individual, whether they have a disability or not. Language can be a very sensitive topic, so here are a few golden rules:
– Don’t use negative terms such as ‘victim’, ‘suffering’ or ‘handicapped’.
– Equally, don’t assume that those with a disability are ‘brave’ or a ‘hero’.
– Don’t refer to those without disabilities as ‘normal’ or ‘healthy’.
– When in doubt, ask the person how they want to be referred to, or refer to them by their name.
Specialist learning disability supported housing in your area
To secure specialist learning disability supported housing for yourself or someone you know, please get in touch with our dedicated team today at FHA.