Our Commitment
Disabled Entrepreneur Disability UK has taken significant steps to adhere to its own editorial code, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusivity and respect in its communication. The organization has ensured that its publications and online content consistently use person-first language, prioritizing the individual before their disability. They have also gone to great lengths to provide accessible content, making use of alternative text for images and complying with web accessibility standards. Additionally, Disabled Entrepreneur Disability UK actively collaborates with individuals with disabilities and advocacy groups, seeking their input and feedback to ensure that their content is both accurate and respectful. By consistently implementing these principles, the organization sets a positive example for promoting inclusivity and respect in the world of entrepreneurship for individuals with disabilities.
Editorial Code for Writing Articles on Disabilities – A Guide from the Government Website
It is essential to ensure that our communication, including articles, publications, and online content, reflects a deep understanding and respect for the experiences and needs of individuals with disabilities. The government plays a crucial role in setting the standards for such communication, and one of the key resources available to guide writers in this endeavor is the Editorial Code for Writing Articles on Disabilities, as cited on the government website.
The Importance of an Editorial Code
An editorial code serves as a framework that outlines the principles, guidelines, and best practices for creating content that is respectful, informative, and accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. In the context of articles related to disabilities, this code is paramount in ensuring that the narratives we create promote inclusivity and provide accurate and valuable information.
Key Principles of the Editorial Code
The Editorial Code for Writing Articles on Disabilities, as cited on the government website, is built upon a set of fundamental principles that should underpin all content related to disabilities. Here are some of the key principles:
- Respect and Dignity: Articles must always treat individuals with disabilities with the utmost respect and dignity, avoiding stereotypes, stigmatization, or offensive language. The code emphasizes the importance of portraying individuals with disabilities as equal members of society.
- Accuracy and Authenticity: Content should be accurate, fact-checked, and free from misinformation. Writers are encouraged to consult reliable sources and experts in the field to ensure the accuracy of their articles. Personal stories and experiences shared by individuals with disabilities should be presented authentically.
- Inclusivity and Accessibility: Articles should be created with accessibility in mind. This includes providing alternative text for images, using clear and concise language, and adhering to web accessibility standards to ensure that content can be easily accessed and understood by individuals with disabilities.
- Avoiding Pity and Inspiration Porn: The code discourages the use of stories that exploit or sensationalize the lives of individuals with disabilities for emotional appeal. It emphasizes that individuals with disabilities should not be reduced to objects of pity or inspiration.
- Intersectionality: Recognizing that individuals with disabilities come from diverse backgrounds, the code encourages writers to consider the intersectionality of disabilities with other aspects of identity, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation.
- Consultation and Collaboration: Writers are encouraged to collaborate with individuals with disabilities, advocacy groups, and experts in the field to ensure that the content is accurate and respectful.
Implementing the Editorial Code
To effectively implement the Editorial Code for Writing Articles on Disabilities, writers and content creators should take several practical steps:
- Research and Education: Continuously educate yourself about disabilities and the experiences of individuals with disabilities. Stay updated with the latest information and resources on the topic.
- Use of Inclusive Language: Be mindful of language use, opt for person-first language (e.g., “a person with a disability” instead of “a disabled person”), and avoid derogatory terms.
- Accessibility Testing: Conduct accessibility testing to ensure that your articles are compliant with web accessibility standards, making them accessible to individuals using assistive technologies.
- Seek Feedback: When possible, seek feedback from individuals with disabilities to ensure your content is respectful and inclusive.
Words Not To Use Or Re-Phrase:
Language is a powerful tool, and it’s essential to use it respectfully and inclusively. Some words and phrases can be insensitive, offensive, or exclusionary. Here’s a list of words and phrases that should be rephrased or avoided in favor of more inclusive and respectful alternatives:
- Disabled person – Rephrase to “person with a disability” to emphasize the person first, rather than their disability.
- Handicapped – Use “accessible” or “barrier-free” when referring to facilities and spaces.
- Cripple – Avoid this term and instead use “person with a mobility impairment” or describe the specific condition if necessary.
- Invalid – Use “person with a disability” or “disabled person” instead.
- Wheelchair-bound – Use “wheelchair user” to describe someone who uses a wheelchair.
- Mentally retarded – Use “person with an intellectual or developmental disability.”
- Crazy or “Insane” – Use “person with a mental health condition” or “person experiencing a mental health crisis” when appropriate.
- Deaf and dumb/mute – Use “Deaf” to refer to individuals who are culturally Deaf and communicate using sign language, and “nonverbal” to describe individuals who may not speak but can communicate in other ways.
- Normal – Avoid using “normal” to describe someone without a disability. Instead, use “typical” or “non-disabled.”
- Suffering from – Instead of “suffering from a disability,” use “living with” or “having a disability.”
- Victim of – Replace with “survivor of” when discussing individuals who have experienced trauma or adversity.
- Special needs – Use “additional needs” or “individualized support” to describe accommodations or services required by individuals with disabilities.
- Blind to – Instead, use “unaware of” or “ignorant of.”
- Confined to a wheelchair – Use “uses a wheelchair” to emphasize that the wheelchair is a tool for mobility, not a restriction.
- Normal person – Instead, refer to someone without a disability as a “non-disabled person” or simply use “person.”
- Cognitive impairment – Use “cognitive disability” when referring to conditions that affect thinking and understanding.
- Retardation – Use “intellectual or developmental disability” to describe conditions that impact cognitive functioning.
- Crazy person – Use “person with a mental health condition” or “person experiencing mental distress.”
- Lame – Avoid using this term and instead describe the specific condition or limitation.
- Gimp – This term is derogatory; avoid using it and instead use “person with a disability” or describe the specific disability.
It’s important to note that the language we use can have a significant impact on how people are perceived and treated. Being mindful of our words and choosing inclusive and respectful language helps create a more welcoming and understanding society for all.
Conclusion
The Editorial Code for Writing Articles on Disabilities, as cited on the government website, is a valuable resource for writers and content creators committed to promoting inclusivity, respect, and accuracy in articles related to disabilities. By adhering to the principles and guidelines outlined in this code, we can create content that not only informs but also empowers individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society for all.
Citations:
- Inclusive communication – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Understanding accessibility requirements for public sector bodies – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
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