What is the ‘social model of disability’ and why does it matter?

The social model of disability says that people are disabled by barriers in society, such as buildings not having a ramp or accessible toilets, or people’s attitudes, like assuming people with disability can’t do certain things. The latter is known as ‘ableism’.

The medical model of disability says people are disabled by their impairments or differences and looks at what is ‘wrong’ with the person, not what the person needs. Often, the medical model of disability impairs inclusivity and leads to people losing independence, choice and control in their lives.

The social model helps us recognise barriers that make life harder for people with disability. Removing these barriers creates equality and offers people with disability more independence, choice and control.

An example: under the social model of disability if a building lacked a ramp to allow access to a person in a wheelchair, the view is that the building needs to be fixed NOT that there is something wrong with the person.

Neurodivergence is still largely viewed from a medical model of disability, a deficit mindset, and is heavily impacted by ablest view points. The challenge that is now being set is for workplaces, schools and society as a whole is to consider how they can move to a social model of disability OR what is known as neuro affirming practice.