Scope Awards 2026: Celebrating Disability Equality Champions
Scope, in collaboration with Hollywood actor Adam Pearson, is encouraging individuals to nominate their disability equality champions for the annual Scope Awards. Nominations have officially opened for this year’s event, which aims to recognize and celebrate the contributions of disabled people and those who support them.
Every year, Scope invites anyone who believes they know someone deserving of recognition to submit a nomination. The awards are designed to highlight the work of disabled individuals and organizations that promote inclusivity and accessibility. This year’s ceremony will take place next year, with the event continuing to serve as a platform for raising awareness about the challenges faced by disabled people on a daily basis.
Categories for the Scope Awards
The 2026 Scope Awards feature nine distinct categories, each celebrating different aspects of disability inclusion:
- Media Moment: An impactful media moment that has helped shift public attitudes toward disability.
- Celebrity Role Model: A disabled public figure who uses their platform to drive change.
- Social Media Influencer: An influencer who leverages their online presence to advocate for disability equality.
- Purple Pioneer: Someone who raises awareness of disability or works to change community attitudes.
- Community Group: A local organization that brings people together to create meaningful change.
- Local Service: A business, service, or social enterprise that makes a lasting difference for disabled people.
- Colleague Network: A workplace group that fosters inclusivity for disabled employees.
- Workplace Champion: An individual who promotes disability inclusion and breaks down barriers in the workplace.
- Customer Inclusion: An organization that removes barriers and enhances accessibility for disabled customers.
These categories reflect a wide range of efforts aimed at fostering a more inclusive society, from media representation to workplace practices.
Disability Pride Month and Its Significance
Disability Pride Month, which takes place throughout July, is an important time for disabled people to celebrate their identity and challenge negative perceptions. The movement originated in Boston in 1990 as a grassroots initiative, coinciding with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Since then, it has grown into a global celebration of disability pride and inclusion.
Scope has supported the expansion of Disability Pride Month in the UK since 2009, helping to raise awareness of the unique experiences and strengths of disabled individuals. The month serves as a reminder that disability should be embraced as part of one’s identity, rather than something to be hidden or stigmatized.
Challenges and the Need for Ongoing Advocacy
Despite progress, disabled people continue to face significant challenges, including unfair treatment and harmful stereotypes. According to recent research, only 1 in 10 people are aware of Disability Pride Month, highlighting the need for greater visibility and education.
Recent government policies, such as benefit cuts affecting thousands of disabled individuals, have sparked concern within the community. These changes have led to widespread criticism and calls for stronger advocacy. Activists like Adam Pearson and Dr. Shani Dhanda emphasize the importance of sustained efforts to ensure disability inclusion is not limited to a single month.
Voices from the Community
Adam Pearson, known for his role in A Different Man, shared his thoughts on the significance of Disability Pride Month. He noted that while it is essential to celebrate disability, the focus should extend beyond a single month. “Why aren’t we doing this every month?” he asked. “It’s like saying, ‘this month I’m proud, but the rest of the time I’m not.’ That doesn’t make sense.”
Dr. Shani Dhanda, a disability campaigner and TV presenter, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of embracing disability as a core part of identity. She encouraged people to continue celebrating and advocating for disability rights beyond July.
Julice, a cast member of The Assembly, highlighted the impact of Disability Pride Month on personal growth and community connection. “It’s a chance to feel empowered and to share our stories,” she said. “I encourage everyone to nominate themselves or others for the Scope Awards.”
Final Thoughts
As the Scope Awards approach, there is a growing call for continued advocacy and recognition of disability equality. The event not only celebrates achievements but also highlights the ongoing need for inclusivity in all areas of life. By nominating individuals and organizations that champion disability rights, people can help shape a more equitable future.
For more information on the Scope Awards and how to submit a nomination, visit scope.org.uk.
