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Celebrating a Local Disability Hero!

An image of a council member standing next to a blue plaque dedication

Article Summary

Celebrate a key figure from the disability rights campaigner who lived in Whitley Bay

Mary Greaves & the Disablement Income Group

This week, on 18th July 2024, North Tyneside Council will unveil a blue plaque in honour of Mary Greaves, a true champion for disabled people. Mary, who was herself disabled, was born in Newcastle and led the Disablement Income Group (DIG).

Mary’s hard work helped bring about the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act (CSDP Act) in 1970. This was the first law in the UK designed specifically to meet the needs of disabled people. Many people called it a great achievement and a ‘Disabled People’s Charter.’

But Mary also pointed out that the Act had some problems. It focused more on what disabled people couldn’t do, rather than focusing on the disabling world around us. Even with these issues, the CSDP Act was a big step forward, and Mary’s work was key to making it happen. Today, we celebrate her amazing efforts and the lasting impact she has had on our community.
 
Mary Greaves and DIG focused on one big issue: the extra costs of living with a disability. This work continues today under the idea of the “disability price tag“. For example, it costs an average of £975 more per month to live as a disabled person in the UK. Additionally, seven in ten disabled workers earn less than £15 an hour. This disability pay gap still needs to end.

Mary also highlighted the limited options available to disabled people. One clear example of this is the lack of accessible housing. In the region Mary called home, only one accessible home is planned for every 119 disabled people who need one.

Mary Greaves was a trailblazer who fought for the rights and needs of disabled people. As the blue plaque is unveiled in her honour, we remember her dedication and the positive changes she made for disabled people in the UK. 

Do you want to fight for disability rights in Mary Greaves’ home region? Join here www.differencenortheast.org/join-us

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