Disability Wales is helping disabled people across the nation take a more active role in Welsh democracy with the launch of its new Access to Politics Toolkit and the next phase of the Access to Elected Office Fund Wales. The launch event is scheduled online for Thursday 24 September.
Empowering Disabled Candidates
Disabled people continue to be significantly underrepresented in political roles. Disability Wales’ latest initiatives seek to address this imbalance by removing some of the barriers that disabled candidates face when seeking political office. Both the Toolkit and the Fund work hand in hand to support greater participation in democratic processes.
The Access to Politics Toolkit was co-produced with members of the Access to Politics Grassroots Network, drawing heavily on their lived experiences. This thoughtfully designed, step-by-step guide is intended to help disabled individuals confidently navigate the complexities of politics—whether they aim to stand for a political party, run as independents, or engage in activism to promote disabled people’s rights.
The Toolkit offers practical advice and dispels common misconceptions about standing for office. By easing the journey for aspiring politicians, it aims to boost confidence and accessibility for disabled people interested in shaping public policy and governance.
Funding to Overcome Financial Barriers
Alongside the Toolkit, the Access to Elected Office Fund Wales provides vital financial assistance to disabled candidates for impairment-related costs. Eligible expenses include those for British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, personal assistants, accessible transport, and assistive technology.
The Fund is available during the lead-up to the Local Government elections set for May 2027, starting from the formal declaration of candidacy until the election results are announced. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible to allow for provisional approval and appropriate support assessments.
Support is accessible to both party-affiliated and independent candidates standing in principal and community council elections across Wales. Both the Toolkit and Fund are non-partisan projects funded by the Welsh Government.
Welsh Government and Disability Wales Speak Out
Siân Gwenllian, Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, emphasised the importance of representing the full diversity of Welsh communities:
“Every disabled person who wants to stand for elected office in Wales should have the confidence and practical support to do so. The launch of the Access to Politics Toolkit, alongside the next stage of the Access to Elected Office Fund Wales, will help break down the barriers that too often stand in the way.”
“This isn’t just about fairness; it’s about strengthening our democracy. Councils and communities benefit when the people representing them reflect the full diversity of Wales. I’d urge you to look at what support is available and start that conversation.”
Rhian Davies, Chief Executive of Disability Wales, added:
“It is vital for democracy that more disabled people are represented in public and political life, using their lived experience to inform better decision making and ensuring that policies and resources more closely meet the real needs across communities.
“Through the launch of the Toolkit and the next stage of the Access to Elected Office Fund, DW is proud to be at the forefront of ensuring greater access to political engagement and supporting the development of disabled people as future leaders.”
Further Information
Disabled people interested in standing for election and seeking support are encouraged to visit the Disability Wales website for more details.
Notes to editors:
Disability Wales (DW) is the national membership body of Disabled People’s Organisations in Wales, dedicated to advancing the rights of all disabled people.
For more information on the Access to Politics Toolkit, please visit Access to Politics – Disability Wales or contact kat.watkins@disabilitywales.org.
For enquiries about the Access to Elected Office Fund Wales, please visit Access to Elected Office Fund Wales – Disability Wales or contact electedofficefund@disabilitywales.org.
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