Background - Language

Words show attitudes - they can reflect as well as influence the way people think. Negative words and stereotypes are a barrier to understanding.

Language use has changed in recent years, as disabled people have claimed individual and collective rights and sought to change their circumstances in part by changing the words used to describe them.

There are bound to be disagreements about which particular terms to use but there is a consensus about some general guidelines.

Language guidelines

• The word 'disabled' is a description not a group of people. Use 'disabled people' not 'the disabled' as the collective term.
• Wherever possible, avoid medical labels, which say little about people as individuals and tend to reinforce stereotypes of disabled people as 'patients' or unwell.
• However, it is important not to refer solely to 'disabled people' in all government communications - many people who need disability benefits and services do not identify with this term.
• Phrases like 'suffers from' cause discomfort or pity and suggest constant pain and a sense of hopelessness. While this may be a reality for some people, an impairment does not necessarily cause pain or require constant medical attention. People who experience chronic pain and other difficulties can nevertheless experience pleasure and do not necessarily regard themselves as tragic.
• Wheelchair users may not view themselves as 'confined to' a wheelchair. They may see it as a liberating A-to-B device - even if they are still hampered by access difficulties.
• Most disabled people are comfortable with the words used to describe daily living. People who use wheelchairs 'go for walks'. People with visual impairments may be very pleased - or not - 'to see you'. An impairment may just mean that some things are done in a different way. It does not usually mean that the words used to describe the activity must be different. However, some common phrases may associate impairments with negative things and are best avoided: 'deaf to our pleas' or 'blind drunk'.

Talking about disabled people

Think about the words you use.

Below is a list of general words about disability to use or avoid. The words on the left are passive, victim words. The words on the right respect disabled people as active individuals with control over their own lives.

For practical tips, visit the top tips section of this guidance.

For other information resources, go to the resources section of this guidance.

Page last reviewed: 11 August 2008