Difference North East
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Access to Work Parliamentary Inquiry
Access to Work and our report to Parliament
Access to Work is a government scheme. It helps Disabled people stay in work. It can pay for things like equipment, taxis, or a support worker. Parliament is looking at whether Access to Work is working properly. We sent them a report. Our report was based on what Disabled people across the North East told us. Many people had problems. The biggest problems were long waits, poor communication, and support being changed or cut without warning. Some people had good experiences. When Access to Work works well, it really helps people stay in work and do their jobs. We told Parliament five things that need to change so the scheme works better for everyone.
Difference North East at the Cleveland Police Hate Crime Strategy Launch
The Cleveland Police Hate Crime Strategy Launch. Difference North East went to a big meeting about hate crime in Cleveland. A hate crime is when someone hurts you or is mean to you because of who you are. This could be because you are Disabled, Black, or LGBTQIA+ or something else. We told Cleveland Police what they need to do to help Disabled people. We said Disabled people need the same legal protection as everyone else. Cleveland Police made an easy read document. This is good.
If you have experienced a hate crime in Cleveland you can report it to Cleveland Police.
Access to the Everyday Report 2026: What Disabled People in the North East Are Telling Us
Disabled people in the North East told us everyday life is still too hard.
77 people shared their experiences.
Many said: Transport is unreliable or inaccessible! There are not enough accessible toilets! Services are confusing and stressful! Workplaces and buildings exclude them! They are treated without respect!
People want to be listened to and involved in decisions that affect their lives.
Access should not be optional. Everyone deserves to get around, use services, work, and be treated with dignity.
Read the full report to learn more and get involved.
Help Shape Disability History Month in the North East! We’re Recruiting!
Disability History Month is coming back to the North East: and we’re looking for a disabled person to help make it happen.
This paid freelance role supports events, venues, artists, and communities to make sure Disability History Month is accessible, welcoming, and led by disabled people. You’ll work flexibly, mostly from home, with support and reasonable adjustments built in.
The role pays £275 per day and is open to disabled applicants living in the North East. Applications close 13 February.
👉 Read the full job description and apply now.