Resources
We’ve brought together a range of resources to support disabled people, families, and allies in York.
This page is always growing. If you know of a resource or organisation we should include, please get in touch and help us keep this space useful and up to date. Email hello@ydrf.org.uk
Did you know?
You can request a free home fire safety visit in York to help make your living space safer.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service offers home visits where trained staff can provide practical advice and support to reduce fire risks and improve safety at home.
During a visit, they can:
- Identify potential fire risks in your home
- Offer tailored advice based on your living situation
- Provide or recommend safety equipment where needed
These visits are designed to support people in staying safe in their own homes, recognising that everyone’s environment and access needs are different.
Visit the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service website to book a home fire safety visit.
Understanding Disability Rights
Understanding disability as a social and human rights issue can help challenge discrimination and build confidence in taking action. The following resources support a shared understanding that disability is shaped by barriers, not by individuals.
Explore:
- An online toolkit on the social and human rights models of disability put together by students from the University of York
- Information on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
- A guide on what the CRPD means for you, including information on:
- What the guide means for you
- The things governments need to do
- The role of the Equality and Human Rights Commission
This guide is available in different formats including an Easy Read version and BSL (British Sign Language) videos available on YouTube.
Finding Support in York
There’s a wide range of local organisations working to remove barriers and improve access across York. These organisations can help you connect, access support, and have your voice heard.
You can explore:
- Healthwatch York – Support with sharing experiences of health and care services; including signposting you to independent complaints advocacy if you need support to complain about a service you have received.
- Live Well York – Information and advice about services, groups and activities for disabled adults in York.
- Raise York – Aimed at parents and carers of under 25s. Includes information about education, health services, support for parents and carers, activities and events.
- York Carers Centre – Free support for unpaid carers in York, including young carers.
York Human Rights City Network – Organisations that support collective action and advocacy to challenge barriers in society and push for a more inclusive, rights-based city.
Accessing Benefits and Financial Support
Applying for financial support can often feel complex and time-consuming but there is support available. These services can help you understand processes, complete applications, and challenge decisions where needed.
You can get help from:
Getting Online and Accessing Digital Tools
Access to digital tools is being made increasingly essential, but not everyone has the same access to devices or connectivity.
If you or someone you know needs support to access digital technology, there are organisations who can help remove that barrier.
- Digital Friendly York – Information, advice and guidance for getting online and knowing where to access help when you need it. Get help understanding how digital can benefit you, and gain the skills you need to make the most of digital and get connected.
- York Learning: Computing Courses – An accessible and flexible way to improve your skills, whether you’re just getting started or exploring advanced skills. Many of these courses are free if you earn less than £20,319 a year or receive a means tested benefit such as Universal Credit.
York’s IT Reuse Scheme – IT ReUse take donations of unused IT equipment and provide it to people in need, supporting those who do not have a computer suitable for their needs.
Challenging Barriers and Taking Legal Action
Challenging discrimination is an important part of creating change.
- The ‘Disability Attitude Re-adjustment Tool’ (DART) – Doug Paulley has written and published a “Guide for Disabled People to Sue Service Providers for Disability Discrimination, as Unrepresented Litigants in Person in England”.
Doug Paulley’s Blog is well worth a visit for anyone interested in disability activism and human rights.
Checking and Planning Access
Access to spaces, services, and information is essential.
You can use:
- Euan’s Guide – reviews of disabled access; like trip advisor but for disability
- AccessAble – detailed accessibility information for venues
City of York Council – local accessibility information (e.g. toilets, Blue Badges)
Improving Accessibility (for organisations and groups)
Accessibility is a shared responsibility.
If you create content, events, or services, these guides can help you remove barriers:
- RNIB guidance on accessible social media
- AbilityNet’s tips for accessible writing
- AbilityNet’s guide to accessible documents
Small, intentional changes can make information more inclusive for everyone.
