Difference North East

Ramping Up Rights: An Evening with Rachel Charlton-Dailey
2025-07-09 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Stockton Central Library, Church Rd, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1TU, United Kingdom
Join us for an evening of disabled resistance, solidarity, and stories with the ‘Ramping Up Rights’ Book Launch!
Ramping Up Rights Book Launch! To mark the launch of Ramping Up Rights: An Unfinished History of British Disability Activism, author, and journalist Rachel Charlton-Dailey (see articles here in the Mirror and here in the Canary!) will be in conversation with Claire Andrews from Difference North East!
🗓 Wednesday 9 July 2025🕖 7:00PM📍 Stockton Library🎟 £5 per ticket – redeemable against a copy of the book on the night🤝 Free tickets for PAs/carers/support workers available — just request a second ticket in the Notes box at checkout.
Expect honest, unapologetic conversation about activism, history, and the fight for disabled rights in the UK: past, present, and future.
📚 Hosted in partnership with Drake the Bookshop.
Access Information

Step-free access

Lift to all floors

Accessible restrooms

Hearing loop

Automatic doors

Accessible parking

Baby changing facilities

BSL interpreted

Ticketless booking – just give your name at the door (register here)

Online Chat: Everyday Challenges: Simple Solutions? Online Accessibility Discussion.
2025-07-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Online via Zoom
Struggling with things others seem to manage easily? Join our online accessibility discussion.
You’re not alone. Many people face daily barriers—whether it’s healthcare systems that don’t understand, public transport that’s tricky to navigate, or simply feeling exhausted by explaining your needs. Join Difference North East for a relaxed online accessibility discussion at a rescheduled time of Tuesday 15th July 6pm – 7:30pm (provisionally booked). This is a chance to:

Share your experiences in a safe, anonymous space
Compare notes with others who “get it”
Highlight practical solutions that would make life smoother

We’ll focus on real-life topics like:

🚍 Transport: Buses, trains, or taxis that don’t work for you
🏥 Healthcare: Appointments, waiting times, or dismissive attitudes
🛒 Everyday spaces: Shops, websites, or services that create barriers

“You don’t need a diagnosis to know when something isn’t working. This is about listening to what people actually need.”
How it works:

Hosted on Zoom (with captions available)
Just 10 participants to keep it conversational
No cameras needed, join however you’re comfortable
Your input will be anonymised and shared with relevant organisations

Who’s it for?

Anyone who finds daily life harder than it should be
People who’ve ever thought, “Why isn’t this designed for me?”
Those who prefer sharing from home.

Book your spot:

Date: Tuesday 20th May, 6pm-7:30pm
Online: Zoom link sent after booking
Spaces: 10 only
Email bex@differencenortheast.org.uk with your name and any access needs to register.

No labels required. Just your perspective.
Register here

Setting the Agenda: How Can You Get Really Involved in Climate Action?
2025-09-18 18:00 - 19:00
A community event for disabled people and allies across the North East, The Disabled climate action forum!
🗓 18 September 2025 | 🕕 6:00 PM (UK time) | 💻 Online via Zoom

Climate change affects us all! But the structure of these conversations often excludes disabled people. That has to change – Disabled climate action forum.
Join Difference North East for a special relaunch of the Disabled Climate Action Forum (DCAF), where we’ll explore what real, community-led climate action looks like, by and for disabled people.
We’ll ask:

What can we actually do in our everyday lives and organisations?
How can we reduce harm while increasing inclusion?
How can disabled people take the lead in environmental change?

NOT a lecture, it’s a space to talk, share ideas, and dream up bold, practical futures together.

💥 Want to join the conversation?
This event is for members and allies of Difference North East.It’s free to join, and once you do, we’ll send you the Zoom registration.

Become a Member (if you’re disabled)!
OR Join as an Ally (if you’re not disabled or represent an Organisation)!

Once you sign up, you’ll receive an email with your private Zoom invitation.

🤝 Who’s this for?
This space is for:

Disabled people from across the North East

Allies, carers, and people working for inclusion and justice

Anyone who believes the climate future must be accessible and led by the community

📬 Questions? Access needs?
This space will be inclusive as possible.📩 Email us anytime at hello@differencenortheast.org.uk with your access needs or questions.

Let’s set the agenda — together.

Our Voice, Our Agenda: October Meeting
2025-10-01 12:30 - 13:30 | Online via Zoom
Join us for the October meet of Our Voice, Our Agenda (OVOA), a new, independent forum created by and for d/Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodiverse people in the North East.
Frustrated by the government’s tokenistic Regional Stakeholder Network, we are building a space where we truly represent ourselves. This forum will be led by our community, set by our agenda, and focused on the issues that matter to us in the North East.
This is your chance to help shape a platform where our local skills, knowledge, and lived experience are genuinely valued.
Who Should Attend?
This meeting is open to:

Member Organisations: Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs) from across the North East.

Community Members: Disabled-led community groups and independent disabled people actively involved in their local communities.

Allies & Allied Organisations: We also welcome allies and organisations that support disabled people. (Please note: allied organisations are asked to send a disabled representative where possible).

The North East includes: Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, Sunderland, County Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Darlington.
What to Expect

Collaborate using the principles of the social model of disability and a rights-based approach.

Be part of the discussion that decides the future direction and formal terms of reference for OVOA.

Connect with a network committed to meaningful co-production and collective action.

Help ensure our voices are heard by services, organisations, and government—on our own terms.

Accessibility: The meeting will be held on Zoom with Closed Captioning and BSL interpretation provided.
How to Join
Registration is essential. Please sign up in advance via the Zoom link below. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information on how to join the meeting.
Register for the Zoom Meeting Here
Let’s build a platform that reflects us – our voices, our agenda.
We look forward to seeing you there

Navigating Redcar's Challenges: A Cuppa & A Chat.
2025-10-09 13:30 - 14:30 | Footprints Community Café, Redcar, 14a High St,, Redcar, TS10 3DU, United Kingdom
Navigating Redcar’s Challenges: A Cuppa & A Chat
Thursday 9th October, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Footprints Community Café, Redcar

How’s life where you are? @ Footprints Café

Where do you face barriers in Redcar? From public transport and shop layouts to rushed appointments and confusing information, many systems aren’t designed with everyone in mind.
If you’ve ever left a place because it was too overwhelming, or felt frustrated by a service that didn’t accommodate you, join this chat. This is a safe space to share those everyday perspectives and be listened to.
Your experiences are valuable evidence that can be used to advocate for practical changes.
“Your frustration is evidence of a problem, not a personal failing. Together, we can build a case for change.”
What We’ll Do

Mapping common issues: Share the frustrations you face around town.
Brainstorming simple fixes: “What would one practical improvement be?”
Feeling heard: Talking with others who understand the challenges.

Key Information
📅
Date: Thursday 9th October, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
📍
Venue: Footprints Community Café, Redcar
☕
Informal: This is a separate drop-in from last week. Feel free to attend either or both.
📧
Questions? Email claire@differencenortheast.org.uk

Email to Know More!

Do you want to fight for disability rights in Teesside? Your story matters.
Join Difference North East!

Difference North East 2025 AGM Celebrating a Year of Resistance & Renewal
2025-10-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Online via Zoom
Annual General Meeting 2025

From exclusion to action, October 2024–October 2025 has been a year of momentum. We built new teams on Tyneside and Teesside, created Our Voice Our Agenda, challenged welfare reform, fought for accessible housing and transport, launched research into disability and domestic abuse, and filled the empty chairs left by politicians who wouldn’t listen. Every step, disabled people led.
Now, as we mark 30 years since the Disability Discrimination Act, we’re ready for the next chapter.
Join us for our Annual General Meeting – Tuesday 22 October, 6–8 pm (online). We’ll celebrate a year of resistance and renewal, and share plans for the biggest Disability History Month yet: theatre, art, photography, workshops, and action across the North East.

Register for the AGM
Complete the form below to register for our Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 22 October.

Finding Your Voice: A Cuppa & A Chat in Redcar
2025-11-06 13:30 - 14:30 | Footprints Community Café, Redcar, 14a High St,, Redcar, TS10 3DU, United Kingdom
Finding Your Voice: A Cuppa & A Chat in Redcar
Thursday 6th November, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Footprints Community Café, Redcar

Community Discussion at Footprints Café

From bus routes that don’t run to shops that are hard to navigate, it can feel like your corner of Teesside isn’t designed with everyone in mind. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, overlooked, or just plain exhausted by systems that don’t work for you, you’re not alone.
Join us for a relaxed, informal cuppa at Footprints Community Café. This isn’t a formal meeting; it’s a chance to connect, share everyday experiences, and be heard. We’re here to listen to what life is really like for Disabled people and those with long-term health conditions in Redcar.
“You are the expert in your own life. Your frustration is evidence of a problem, not a personal failing.”
What to Expect

Share experiences: What works? What really doesn’t?
Connect with others: Meet people who understand the challenges.
Start a conversation: Your perspective is valuable evidence for change.

Key Information
📅
Date: Thursday 6th November, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
📍
Venue: Footprints Community Café, Redcar
☕
Informal: Drop in, no pressure to stay the whole hour
📧
Questions? Email claire@differencenortheast.org.uk

Email to Inquire

Do you want to fight for disability rights in Teesside?
Join Difference North East!

Claiming the Normal: Photography Exhibition - Newcastle
2025-11-17 - 2025-11-29 | Newcastle City Library, 33 New Bridge St W,, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8AX, United Kingdom
Claim the Normal
Created by Difference North East and photographed by Kev Howard, the project Claiming the Normal celebrates every day disabled lives, challenging stereotypes and reclaiming space for authentic representation. The exhibition showcases striking portraits of disabled people doing ordinary things—working, shopping, enjoying hobbies, and simply living their lives.

@differencenortheast The media often gets disability WRONG! 🚫 Disabled people are shown as either helpless or superheroes. ✅ But in real life, disabled people go to the pub, shop, work, and have fun—just like everyone else. We’re taking real photos to show every day disabled people—AND WE NEED YOU! Get paid £50-£75 for a 1-3 hour photo shoot. No experience needed—just be yourself! Interested? Send us a DM, email christopher@differencenortheast.org.uk, or text/WhatsApp 07813 789529. Tag a friend who should be part of this! #RealDisabledLife #representationmatters #disabledtiktok #disability ♬ original sound: Difference North East

Through these images, the project breaks down barriers and invites audiences to rethink how disability is portrayed: beyond clichés of “superhuman” or “helpless.”
About the Project:
Reclaiming the Normal is a photography initiative by Difference North East, a disability rights charity dedicated to ending discrimination, improving access, and changing public perceptions of disability!

Disabled Canon ZOOM EVENT - Discussion
2025-11-19 13:00 - 14:30 | Online via Zoom
Disabled Canon ZOOM EVENT – Discussion

Disabled Canon ZOOM EVENT – Discussion

Disabled Canon ZOOM EVENT – How the North East can lead meaningful change in the creative sector’s relationship to disabled-led work.

For centuries disabled people have existed on stages, and in literature as villains, objects of ridicule or pity, and never in our own right. Disabled lives have been narrated by others – framed through fear, charity or tragedy – rather than told through our own voices.
Disabled people’s experiences don’t fit familiar narratives and our art and activism is so readily dismissed by a world that often refuses to see us as fully human – a world that, at times, would rather we didn’t exist.
Through a series of creative reflections, open discussion and shared reflection, we will ask what it means to reshape the North East theatre landscape around the Disability Canon, and how reimaging those stories can shift culture, policy, systems and power.
There will be BSL interpretation provided by Becoming Visible, available through the online tickets.
If you are d/Deaf and require BSL interpretation, please book an online ticket.
A big thank you to Northumberland Estates for making this interpretation possible.
Ed Cole (Artistic & Executive Director, Alphabetti Theatre) and Bex Bowsher (Theatre Director and Development Manager for Difference North East) will be available after the event to discuss issues raised with anyone who may prefer a 1-to-1 setting.

Disabled Canon ZOOM EVENT – Discussion. Book Your Free Place

If the embed doesn’t work, book directly on TicketSource:

Click here to book

In-Person Disability Canon: Alphabetti Theatre & Difference North East
2025-11-19 13:00 - 14:30
In-Person Disability Canon: Alphabetti Theatre & Difference North East

In-Person Disability Canon

For centuries disabled people have existed on stages, and in literature as villains, objects of ridicule or pity, and never in our own right. Disabled lives have been narrated by others – framed through fear, charity or tragedy – rather than told through our own voices.
Disabled people’s experiences don’t fit familiar narratives and our art and activism is so readily dismissed by a world that often refuses to see us as fully human – a world that, at times, would rather we didn’t exist.
Through a series of creative reflections, open discussion and shared reflection, we will ask what it means to reshape the North East theatre landscape around the Disability Canon, and how reimaging those stories can shift culture, policy, systems and power.
There will be BSL interpretation provided by Becoming Visible, available through the online tickets.
If you are d/Deaf and require BSL interpretation, please book an online ticket.
booked here!
A big thank you to Northumberland Estates for making this interpretation possible.
Ed Cole (Artistic & Executive Director, Alphabetti Theatre) and Bex Bowsher (Theatre Director and Development Manager for Difference North East) will be available after the event to discuss issues raised with anyone who may prefer a 1-to-1 setting.
Online tickets (zoom) should be booked here!

Book Your Place – In-Person Event

If the embed doesn’t work, book directly on TicketSource:

Click here to book

What Matters To You Matters To Art.
2025-11-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Alphabetti Theatre, St James Boulevard, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4HP, United Kingdom
What Matters To You Matters To Art.
We’re working with the Alphabetti to bring conversation, events and meaningful change to how disabled artists are integrated into the north-east creative sector.
For one of our free events next week we’re inviting d/Deaf, Disabled, neurodivergent artists and those with chronic conditions to talk creativity, access, and the world we want to build.
This is a free, non-ticketed event. Just turn up to the bar space at Alphabetti Theatre on Wednesday, November 19th any time between 3pm and 5pm to be a part of the conversation.
See you there!

Zine Workshop: Make Noise Without Social Media (Ages 12–15)
2025-11-22 11:45 - 13:15 | Newcastle City Library, 33 New Bridge St W,, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8AX, United Kingdom
Zine Workshop: Make Noise Without Social Media (Ages 12–15)Saturday 22 November 2025 · 11:45am–1:15pm · Newcastle City Library, Level 3
Join artist Miki Rogers for a creative zine-making session for young people aged 12–15. Explore how small handmade magazines can express big ideas — identity, community, and the issues that matter. No experience needed; all materials provided.
Zine-making is “anti-social social media” — it’s about conversation, creativity and connection, not followers or likes.
🎟️ Free but limited places — Book your spot on Eventbrite

Imagining Accessible Futures - Members' Workshop Amble
2025-11-27 12:30 - 14:00 | Drywater Arts Centre, The Workshop, Wellwood Street, Amble, NE65 0FG
Imagining Accessible Futures Members in Amble
A creative workshop for Difference North East members
Imagining Accessible Futures, Members Amble: What could the world look like if everyone’s access needs were met? If our homes, streets, and workplaces truly worked for all of us—what would we be doing, creating, and celebrating together?
Join us for a relaxed, creative session where we’ll explore the future we want to build. You don’t need any artistic experience—just your imagination and your ideas. Through simple, low-pressure creative activities, we’ll look ahead to the next year of Difference North East’s work and gather your thoughts on what matters most to our community.

Thursday, November 27, 2025 12.30-2pm, Dry Water Arts
2 hours
Small group (max 8 people): plus carers & facilitator
Access: If you need BSL interpretation, please let us know ASAP & please let us know any other access needs in advance
In-person only (we may run a digital version in the new year if there’s interest!)

This is your chance to connect, dream big, and help shape Difference’s priorities for 2026, together.
﻿

Book your free place
Spaces are limited. If you can;t use the form above use this link:
Fill in the form

Zine Workshop: Hartlepool Art Gallery. Make Noise Without Social Media (Ages 12–15)
2025-11-30 11:45 - 13:45 | Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church St,, Hartlepool, TS24 7EQ, United Kingdom
Zine Workshop: Make Noise Without Social Media (Ages 12–15)Sunday 30 November 2025 · Time 11.45am – 1.45pm · Hartlepool Art Gallery
Join artist Miki Rogers for a creative zine-making session for young people aged 12–15. Explore how small handmade magazines can express big ideas: identity, community, and the issues that matter. No experience needed; all materials provided.
Zine-making is “anti-social social media” — it’s about conversation, creativity and connection, not followers or likes.
🎟️ Free but limited places

Book your free place
Spaces are limited. Book a free place:
If you are not able to use the above form, click here to fill in

Claiming the Normal - Hartlepool
2025-12-01 - 2025-12-19 | Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church St,, Hartlepool, TS24 7EQ, United Kingdom

Free Lunch & Learn: How accessible is your online presence for disabled people?
2025-12-01 12:30 - 13:00 | Online via Zoom
How accessible is your online presence for disabled people? | Lunch & Learn with Difference North East

How accessible is your online presence for disabled people?
A 20-minute practical session to make your digital spaces more inclusive

About this session

Most people want to be accessible online, but many don’t know where to start.
In this short Lunch & Learn webinar, Claire will guide you through the essentials of making your website, social media and digital materials more inclusive for disabled people.

You’ll learn what accessibility really means in practice, how to spot common barriers, and which quick changes can make the biggest difference to your audience. There’ll be 5 minutes for questions and 5 minutes for feedback at the end.

Date: Monday 1 December 2025
Time: 12:30pm-1pm
Run time: 20 mins + Q&A & feedback
Format: Free Zoom webinar
Accessibility: Live captions and BSL interpretation provided
Spaces: Max 95 attendees

FREE EVENT
Join us for a quick, practical session, perfect for your lunch break!

Register now

Fill out the form below to reserve your spot.
You’ll receive your Zoom link by email after registration.

Zoom registration form

If the form doesn’t load, please

open the Zoom registration in a new tab.

Love what we do?
Joining Difference North East is free and helps us keep offering sessions like this one.
Be part of a growing community making the North East more accessible for everyone.

Finding Power in Disability History
2025-12-03 12:00 - 14:00 | Billingham Library, illingham Library, Kingsway, Stockton-on-Tees, Billingham, TS23 2LN, United Kingdom
Finding Power in Disability History: Join us this International Day of Disabled People for a powerful and engaging talk that connects the past, present, and future of disability rights.

When: Wednesday, 3 December 2025
Time: Talk 12:00pm – 2:00pm (starts 12:15pm)
Refreshments and relaxed questions: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: Billingham Library, Kingsway, Stockton-on-Tees, Billingham TS23 2LN
Cost: FREE (but booking is essential)
Book: CLICK HERE

Finding Power in Disability History: Did You Know

That in 1880, sign language was banned in education around the world?
That in 1907, enforced sterilisation for “confirmed idiots” was enacted in America, and quickly spread to other countries?
That in the 1920s, unions of disabled war veterans were formed, and blind workers marched on London against poor pay and conditions?
That in 1992, disabled people stopped a charity telethon?
That 2025 marks 30 years since the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was passed in 1995?

About the Speaker
Claire Andrews from Difference North East will take us on a journey through disability history, showing how the stories of the past shape the policies of today, and what the future could look like.
Claire has a degree in Disability Studies and has worked for charities across Teesside for the last 20 years. A proud disabled woman, she describes herself as wanting to make a “small difference in our corner of the world.”

Finding Power in Disability History: Who Should Come?
This is a talk for everyone who wants to understand more about disability history and rights, and how to take action today.

Local businesses wanting to make workplaces more accessible
Deaf and Disabled people curious about our shared history
Policymakers and allies eager to support real inclusion

This is a talk you don’t want to miss.

Access Information
We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable attending.

Carers and PAs are welcome
Accessible toilets on site
Free accessible parking nearby

Questions about access? Contact Susan Robinson on 01642 524076 or email susan.robinson@stockton.gov.uk

Book Your Free Place
Booking is required as space is limited. CLICK HERE AND BOOK!
Join Difference North East Today

Community Cuppa at Redcar's Footprints Café
2025-12-04 13:30 - 14:30 | Footprints Community Café, Redcar, 14a High St,, Redcar, TS10 3DU, United Kingdom
Community Cuppa at Redcar’s Footprints Café
Thursday 4th December, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Footprints Community Café, Redcar

How’s life where you are? @ Footprints Café

Where do you face barriers in Redcar? From public transport and shop layouts to rushed appointments and confusing information, many systems aren’t designed with everyone in mind.
If you’ve ever left a place because it was too overwhelming, or felt frustrated by a service that didn’t accommodate you, join this chat. This is a safe space to share those everyday perspectives and be listened to.
Your experiences are valuable evidence that can be used to advocate for practical changes.
“Your frustration is evidence of a problem, not a personal failing. Together, we can build a case for change.”
What We’ll Do

Mapping common issues: Share the frustrations you face around town.
Brainstorming simple fixes: “What would one practical improvement be?”
Feeling heard: Talking with others who understand the challenges.

Key Information
📅
Date: Thursday 4th December, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
📍
Venue: Footprints Community Café, Redcar
☕
Informal: This is a separate drop-in from last week. Feel free to attend either or both.
📧
Questions? Email claire@differencenortheast.org.uk

Email to Know More!

Do you want to fight for disability rights in Teesside? Your story matters.
Join Difference North East!

Mary Greaves, Local Disability Hero
2025-12-08 11:00 - 12:00 | Online via Zoom
As part of Disability History Month, Christopher Hartworth will be delivering a presentation and talk about Mary Greaves, a Disability Activist from Whitley Bay who was involved in lobbying for the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970.
Members only event. Sign up here and we will contact you with the link.
This event will be held on zoom. You might find these resources helpful – how to join and Zoom call and Ground Rules for Difference Events.
If you require any adjustments to attend Difference North East events, please let us know by emailing hello@differencenortheast.org.uk or by phone/text/whatsapp to 07304061207.
Register

Prefer a full-screen version?

Click here to register instead
.
Join Difference North East

Imagining Accessible Futures - Members' Workshop Newcastle City Library
2025-12-09 13:30 - 15:30 | Bewick Room, Newcastle City Library, Bewick Hall (Level 2) Newcastle City Library Charles Avison Building, 33 New Bridge Street West, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8AX, United Kingdom
Imagining Accessible Futures Members in Newcastle City Library
A creative workshop for Difference North East members
Imagining Accessible Futures – Newcastle City Library: What could the world look like if everyone’s access needs were met? If our homes, streets, and workplaces truly worked for all of us, what would we be doing, creating, and celebrating together?
Join us for a relaxed, creative session where we’ll explore the future we want to build. You don’t need any artistic experience—just your imagination and your ideas. Through simple, low-pressure creative activities, we’ll look ahead to the next year of Difference North East’s work and gather your thoughts on what matters most to our community.

Tuesday, December 9, 2025. 1:30-3:30pm Bewick Room, Newcastle City Library
2 hours
Small group (max 8 people): plus carers & facilitator
Access: If you need BSL interpretation please let us know ASAP & please let us know any other access needs in advance
In-person only (we may run a digital version in the new year if there’s interest!)

This is your chance to connect, dream big, and help shape Difference’s priorities for 2026, together.
﻿

Book your free place
Spaces are limited. If you can;t use the form above use this link:
Fill in the form

Imagining Accessible Futures – Members’ Workshop Northern Stage
2025-12-10 12:30 - 14:30 | Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RH, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RH, United Kingdom
Imagining Accessible Futures: Northern Stage
A creative workshop for Difference North East members
Imagining Accessible Futures, Members Northern Stage: What could the world look like if everyone’s access needs were met? If our homes, streets, and workplaces truly worked for all of us, what would we be doing, creating, and celebrating together?
Join us for a relaxed, creative session where we’ll explore the future we want to build. You don’t need any artistic experience,just your imagination and your ideas. Through simple, low-pressure creative activities, we’ll look ahead to the next year of Difference North East’s work and gather your thoughts on what matters most to our community.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025. 12:30-2:30 Northern Stage, Newcastle
2 hours
Small group (max 8 people): plus carers & facilitator
Access: If you need BSL interpretation please let us know ASAP & please let us know any other access needs in advance
In-person only (we may run a digital version in the new year if there’s interest!)

This is your chance to connect, dream big, and help shape Difference’s priorities for 2026, together.
﻿

Book your free place
Spaces are limited. If you can;t use the form above use this link:
Fill in the form

Our Voice, Our Agenda: December 18, 2025
2025-12-18 12:30 - 13:30 | Online via Zoom
About the Event: Our Voice, Our Agenda, December 2025
Join us for Our Voice, Our Agenda (OVOA), Thursday, December 18, 2025, 12:30 PM, for an independent forum created by and for d/Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodivergent people in the North East.
Frustrated by the government’s tokenism?
We are building a space where we truly represent ourselves. This forum is led by our community, set by our agenda, and focused on the issues that matter most to us in the North East.
This meeting is your chance to help shape a platform where our local skills, knowledge, and lived experience are genuinely valued.
Who Should Attend Our Voice, Our Agenda, December 2025

Member Organisations: Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs) across the North East

Community Members: Disabled-led groups and independent disabled people active in their local communities

Allies & Allied Organisations: Supporters of disabled people (please send a disabled representative where possible)

🗺️ The North East includes: Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, Sunderland, County Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Darlington.
What to Expect from Our Voice, Our Agenda, December 2025

Read a summary of the last meeting here!

Work together using the social model of disability and a rights-based approach

Discuss what matters most to disabled people in the North East

Connect with others committed to co-production and collective action

Help ensure our voices are heard by services, organisations, and government — on our own terms

Accessibility
This meeting will be held on Zoom, with Closed Captioning and BSL interpretation available (please request interpreters at least 4 weeks in advance, if possible).
Registration
Registration is essential.

Zoom registration form

If the form doesn’t load, please

open the Zoom registration in a new tab.

When the power goes out, who gets forgotten? Disabled Climate Action Forum: June Meeting
2026-06-17 16:00 - 17:00 | Online via Zoom
Disabled people, Climate Emergency & Power: When the power goes out, who gets forgotten? As a Disabled people you might fear you already know the answer.

Disabled People, Climate Emergency, Power | 17th June 2026 | 4pm–5pm, finishing on time | Online via Zoom (register below)Join us for the next meeting of the Disabled Climate Action Forum (DCAF) and help shape research that could change that.
Who is Danielle, and why is she coming to us?
Dr. Danielle Johnson is a researcher at Durham University whose work focuses on something that rarely makes the headlines: who gets left behind when the climate breaks down. She’s currently studying what happens when extreme weather knocks out the power grid, who loses heating, who loses medical equipment, whose routines collapse, whose medication needs refrigeration, who can’t reach their support network, who gets missed in the response, and what more genuinely inclusive emergency planning and response could look like.
She already knows disabled are among those people who get hit hardest by extreme weather and other forms of climate disruption. What she needs is what we know. She’s not here to present at us, she’s here because DCAF members know things her research needs to get right. Danielle has agreed to share her findings with DCAF members before publication and to credit the forum’s contribution in her research.
This is your meeting.
DCAF is run by and for disabled people. Members set the agenda. At this session we’ll hear briefly from Danielle, then open the floor. Your experience is the point.

Never been to a DCAF meeting? Most sessions are a short presentation followed by open conversation. You don’t need to know anything in advance.We’ll also look at what’s next for DCAF and how you can get more involved in shaping it. You don’t need to be an expert or an activist you just need to be curious.
Can’t make it on the day?
This session will be recorded and shared with everyone who registers. You’ll get the recording whether or not you attend live.Who’s this for?

Disabled people across the North East
Allies, carers, and organisations committed to inclusion
Anyone who thinks disabled people should be part of decisions about what happens next

This event is free and open to members and allies of Difference North East.Joining is free and doesn’t commit you to anything, you’ll get our newsletter and access to events like this one.You can register for this event by filling out the form below.

If you have any difficulty filling in the above form or it does not load, the form is available here too
Not yet a member?
Join here if you identify as disabled. Join as an Ally (if you’re not disabled or represent an organisation)
What to expect on the day
Around 10 people usually attend. Camera off is completely fine you won’t be asked to turn it on. Your name will be visible to other attendees in the Zoom participant list. If you’d prefer to join under a different name, you can change your Zoom display name before you enter the meeting. Most people use the chat as much as the mic.Access

This event will have live captions.
BSL interpretation is available, please request by XX so we can book an interpreter.
To request access support or ask anything before the event or to let us know about any other access requirements email info@differencenortheast.org.uk.
