To What Extent Do Neoliberal Definitions of Economic Productivity Contribute to Occupational Exclusion for Disabled People?
That was the title of my first assignment as part of my module Understanding Economic and Social Inequalities and Exclusion. It is not a small question, and if I am honest, at the start it felt quite overwhelming. But as I worked through the module, and built on my earlier presentation exploring occupational deprivation, it…
From Woman in Mind to West End Girl Exploring how planning enables leisure occupations
Some occupations take more planning than others. For many people, deciding to go to the theatre or a concert might be a spontaneous choice. For me, and for many disabled people, engaging in occupations that sit outside everyday routines often requires preparation well in advance. Planning becomes an occupation in itself. Going out to see…
International Wheelchair Day 1st March 2026 – Why Using a Wheelchair Enables Occupations: What I Want Every Occupational Therapist to Understand
International Wheelchair Day was founded in 2008 by Steve Wilkinson, a wheelchair user who wanted to celebrate the positive impact wheelchairs have on people’s lives while also recognising the global injustice faced by those who cannot access one. I remember meeting him at Naidex some years ago. At the time, I did not fully appreciate…