Who we are
Our values
Inclusion Scotland is founded on the Social Model of Disability – we are disabled by the barriers we face in society, not by our impairments. Our organisational values reflect our commitment to:
Inclusion
We are passionate about inclusion and keep challenging ourselves to be better. We recognise the importance of including disabled people in all our diversity.
Trust
We seek to be a trusted organisation and to trust each other. We work hard to be fair.
Integrity
We are accountable to our members and our partners and to the wider movement. We build our work from real experience and solid evidence.
Truth
We have the confidence to be direct and honest.
Innovation
We are creative, we encourage people to bring new ideas. We are open to better solutions.
Learning
We take time for collective learning and reflection. We share our learning, information and ideas.
How we make change
We make change by centering disabled people’s lived experience and turning it into action. Our staff, board and members bring direct insight into the barriers disabled people face, and we work collectively to dismantle those barriers at their root. We focus on transforming systems and structures rather than treating exclusion as an individual problem. We collaborate widely, working with disabled people’s organisations, government, employers, public bodies, and third-sector partners, to embed inclusive approaches that create lasting, systemic change across Scotland.
Where we work
Inclusion Scotland works nationwide, supporting disabled people, organisations and communities in every part of the country. We work across urban, rural, island and remote areas, recognising that barriers can look different depending on where people live. Whether it is inaccessible transport, buildings, services or digital exclusion, we are committed to reaching disabled people wherever they are and working towards inclusion in every community.
National reach and local impact
Our national work focuses on influencing the Scottish Government, Parliament and public bodies to ensure disabled people’s rights are reflected in laws, policies and strategies – from human rights and employment to social security and public services.
At the same time, we work locally with councils, health boards, and community organisations to translate inclusive policy into everyday practice.
By supporting local DPOs and grassroots groups, we help strengthen the disability rights movement at every level of Scottish society.
Digital and hybrid working
We use digital and hybrid approaches to reduce barriers to participation and connect with disabled people who may face challenges related to travel, location or access. Our events, consultations and programmes are designed to be accessible and inclusive, ensuring disabled people can engage in ways that work for them.
Why it matters
Disability inclusion is not just a local issue or a national issue – it is an everywhere issue.
Removing barriers requires action across all levels of society, from local communities to national government. By working across systems, sectors and places, Inclusion Scotland helps to build a Scotland where disabled people can participate fully, exercise our rights, and live as equal, included citizens.
