Having a Disability Champion can revolutionise life for disabled youth and children in your church

When we moved to our current church a few years ago, most people who talked with me for more than a few minutes soon discovered that I’m passionate about churches becoming more accessible for disabled people, including disabled young people and children. It wasn’t too long before our vicar approached me and asked if I would consider being the Disability Champion for our church. After praying about it, I gladly accepted. I want churches to not only welcome and include disabled adults, youth and children, but to also be places where they can feel that they truly belong. But what is a Disability Champion and why might your church need one? 

What is a Disability Champion? 

Put simply, a Disability Champion is someone who looks at what happens in the church and looks at any barriers that may prevent a disabled adult, youth or child from being fully involved. They work to reduce those barriers, and where possible, remove them. They will provide resources and strategies to help make church more accessible for everyone. Of course, this is all done with input from the disabled person. They are the experts when it comes to their disability and will know what will help (and more importantly what won’t!).