Having a disability should not be a bar to worship or to inclusion in the church community. In our diocese we aim to be open and accessible to all. We are committed to working towards an environment that will promote and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and freedoms by all people with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.
There are 1 billion disabled people living in the world today, with 12 million of those in the UK alone (18% of the population). Statistics show that globally a disabled person is more likely to live in poverty and isolation and to be a victim of crime and discrimination. They are less likely to be in employment and have less access to education, transport, appropriate housing, and the internet (Office of Disability Issues). The cost of bringing up a disabled child is three times greater than bringing up a non-disabled child (Scope).
Through the Roof is a Christian disability charity, which wants to see everyone valued equally, fully belong, and able to contribute their gifts and skills. The charity’s name comes from the Bible account where some men break through the roof to help their disabled friend meet Jesus (Luke 5). We recognise that every person is made in the image of God and has inherent value and worth, which includes people who have personal experience of disability.
The charity provides resources for Disability Awareness Sunday, which is on 18 September and is a chance to highlight that, as children of God, we are all fearfully and wonderfully made and reflect God’s image however we are embodied.
Find more details at: www.throughtheroof.org/disability-sunday.
