This year’s theme is ‘transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.’ In particular, the day will focus on the areas of workplace equality, making employment accessible and inclusivity within sports. 

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “We’re committed to making Royal Greenwich a great place to live, work and learn for all.  

“It’s so important that International Day of Disabled People shines a light on the challenges faced by those living with disabilities and how we can tackle them.  

“This week, I urge you to get involved with some of the activities and events hosted by the council and our partner charities. We’ll be highlighting services available to residents with disabilities and their families, but this is also a great opportunity to learn about ways we can all help to tackle the barriers to accessibility within our communities.” 

Councillor Denise Scott-McDonald, Cabinet Member for Health and Adults’ Social Care, said: “It’s hugely important to us that those living with disabilities in the Royal Borough of Greenwich have equal access to employment, services and experiences across our borough.  

“Our Health and Adult Services provide support to those who may need it through a host of services and we also recently launched our new Carer’s Strategy. 

“Designed in hand with carers, the plan aims to help them access the right support and ensure they get the recognition they deserve. If you’d like to know more about what support you may be able to access for yourself or your family, please visit our website or contact our disability team.” 

Carlo Salvatore, Co-Chair of council partner METRO GAD, said: "Around 15% of the world's population have some form of impairment. This International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a perfect opportunity to highlight the crucial work METRO GAD does all year round, supporting Disabled people who live, work or study in Greenwich.   

“We are proud to be a user-led organisation, offering advice, information, advocacy and volunteering opportunities. To find out more, and hear direct from some of our team, see our short film." 

On Friday 2 December, the Waterfront Leisure Centre in Woolwich and other partners are holding a free day-long celebration event in collaboration with the Royal Borough of Greenwich and Better. From 11am to 3.30pm, take part in inclusive dance fitness classes, yoga, enjoy a splash in the pool or try ten pin bowling and table cricket.  

On Saturday 3 December, head to the Sutcliffe Park Centre from 12noon to 3.30pm for more free activities including soft play, clip and climb and other sports activities. Participants at both days can also win tickets to a Charlton Athletic football match. This event must be booked in advance. 

On Saturday evening, the first hour at Sparkle in the Park, our free, festive light trail in Well Hall Pleasaunce will be quiet sessions for SEND families. 

Sparkle in the Park, which runs from 1 to 4 December, is an entirely accessible event. There will be first-come-first served parking for blue badge holders available, as well as Changing Places toilets and wheelchair-accessible picnic benches. The trackways surrounding these areas are also wheel-chair friendly. 

METRO Charity have also commissioned a short film highlighting the support METRO GAD offers to disabled people across the borough. The video will be shown on the big screen in General Gordon Square, and you can also catch it at their event in the gallery at METRO Woolwich, Equitable House, between 6 and 8pm on Thursday 8 December. Tickets are free and can be booked here. 

Greenwich Disabled People's Innovation Project, which is funded by the council, are running a 'Cooking with Support' workshop for disabled people on Saturday 3 December from 1 to 4pm at the Bathway Theatre, SE18 6QX. Limited spaces can be booked by email at hello@cultureaccess.co.uk.  

Find out more about the support available to people with disabilities and their families.