Disability History Book Drive 2026
Last year we asked our community for help getting good disability books into more hands across the North East. It worked, and we’re doing it again this year.
Last Year, In Numbers
In March 2026 we delivered 57 books to organisations across the region, including:
- Darlington Association on Disability (also gifted books to mark their 40th anniversary)
- Down’s Syndrome North East
- Star & Shadow Cinema Co-op
- The Meadows Community Centre
- Whitley Bay Big Local
- North Tyneside Art Studio
- Chilli Studios
- Crisis NE
- North Tyneside VODA
- Volunteer Centre Newcastle
- The Comfrey Project
- Scotswood Garden
- Durham Johnston School
- Gosforth Civic Theatre
Several of these organisations have already asked to be part of the drive again this year. A handful of extra copies are still being distributed around Teesside.
This Year
UK Disability History Month runs from 15 November to 15 December. This year’s national theme will be announced by UKDHM in the autumn. As before, we’ll put together a list of books by disabled authors, memoirs, history, fiction and picture books, and get copies out to community organisations across the North East who want them.
Tell Us Your Favourite Children’s Book
Last year’s list leaned heavily on books for adults and young adults. This year we want to grow the children’s book section.
Do you have a favourite children’s book written by a disabled author? Tell us the title and author, and a line or two on why it should be on our list.
You can fill in the short form below, or just email or text us a title, whichever’s easier. There’s no need to use the form if you don’t want to.
While you’re there, the form also asks whether you’d like to join Difference NE as a member (if you’re disabled yourself) or as an ally (if you’re not, but want to support our work). There’s no pressure either way. You can tick “maybe, not sure, please contact me,” or leave it blank and still get your book suggestion in.
We’ll only use what you tell us to build this year’s book list, and to get in touch about membership if you’ve asked us to. We won’t share your details with anyone.
If you’d rather not use an online form, or need it in another format such as Easy Read, BSL, or over the phone, get in touch using the details below and we’ll sort it.
Get In Touch
Email: bex@differencenortheast.org.uk
