In a powerful address as Chair of Unfolding Theatre‘s Board and Difference North East development manager, Bex Bowsher, a disabled, neurodivergent director and playwright, presents a compelling case for disability inclusion in governance. Her speech, which we’ve embedded above, blends personal experience with hard data to challenge systemic barriers in the arts sector and beyond.
The Representation Gap in Leadership: Nothing About Us Without Us
Bex begins with sobering statistics: while 23% of working-age adults in the UK are disabled, they hold just 6% of chair positions in the arts sector. “If we are not at the table,” she warns, quoting disability advocate Tim Wheeler, “questions of access are on the menu when cuts are made.” This disparity has real consequences. Bex describes how her own position on Unfolding Theatre’s board led to tangible changes, from dedicated accessibility budgets to hybrid meeting formats.The Human Cost of Welfare Reforms
With palpable urgency, Bex addresses proposed changes to disability benefits: “These reforms are going to kill people. Reducing disabled people’s benefits won’t make us less disabled: it will push us further into poverty.” She highlights how these policies disproportionately affect regions like the North East, where disability rates are highest (29%) alongside severe deprivation.From Tokenism to Transformation
Bex critiques superficial inclusion efforts: “I was often invited as the token disabled artist to comment on plans when it was too late to make real changes.” She outlines how Unfolding Theatre moved beyond box-ticking:- Creating a separate access budget line (£10,000+ annually)
- Implementing truly hybrid governance (Zoom, email participation, BSL interpretation)
- Removing bureaucratic barriers to access requests
A Blueprint for Change
Bex shares six practical steps any organization can implement:- Distribute board papers two weeks in advance with clear discussion points
- Offer pre-meeting briefings for new trustees
- Provide multiple participation methods (in-person, Zoom, email)
- Cover all access costs without requiring medical proof
- Focus recruitment on potential rather than polished CVs
- Train all trustees on the social model of disability
Conclusion: The Power of Inclusive Governance
Bex’s message is ultimately hopeful: “Change is coming. Be a leader! Don’t wait for someone to force you to do it! When disabled people are at decision-making tables, everyone benefits.” Her work with Unfolding Theatre proves that inclusive governance isn’t just possible: it’s transformative. Watch the full video to hear Bex’s powerful arguments in her own words, then consider:- Who is missing from your organisation’s decision-making?
- What systemic barriers can you help dismantle?
