Kit Renard, the Disabled Greens Co-Convener and 2026 Scottish election candidate, shares how the Access to Elected Office Fund helped him to overcome barriers to standing for election, and why he believes more disabled people should take that step.
What first made you consider standing for elected office?
I decided to stand for two reasons. I wanted experience in standing for election, especially to better support candidates, but I also wanted to be a part of diversifying the candidate list!
Why do you think disabled representation in politics matters?
There is this idea that politicians should be smooth-talking and quick-witted. I can struggle with that, particularly when speaking in public, and therefore I felt like there wasn’t a place for me in politics. Seeing that there is space for me should give other people hope that they can participate too. How can people know they’re welcome if they don’t ever see anyone like them? It doesn’t really matter if the overt messaging is welcoming if the subliminal stuff is unwelcoming.
Before accessing the Fund, what barriers did you anticipate or experience, and how did those barriers affect your confidence about standing?
The main one was financial. There’s the fact that disability intersects with class and wealth, particularly when combined with the extra costs that disabled people are already burdened with, and I just didn’t think I could afford to stand. It’s all technically free, in the sense that my party handles the finances, but I need taxis to get around and to eat at specific times. I can’t afford to do that on my tight budget. I didn’t see any point in standing if I couldn’t campaign properly.
I also didn’t feel a lot of confidence about standing. I’m fine with public speaking after a lot of practice, but politics requires something different. I wasn’t sure I’d even do well enough to be selected.
How has the Access to Elected Office Fund made campaigning more accessible?
Through the Fund I received coaching for hustings and canvassing, as well as a taxi fund.
The taxi fund means I can actually go canvassing, as I wouldn’t be able to make it otherwise, and the coaching gave me the confidence to take part in hustings. The coach taught me techniques to stay calm and remember that I know what I’m talking about (and that it’s okay to say if you don’t).
Would you recommend the Access to Elected Office Fund to others, and why?
Definitely. It’s why I ran a workshop demystifying the process for my party, and I want to run more. I keep telling everyone to apply! It’s such an easy process, and it’s been so helpful to me. The Fund helps smooth the path into politics for disabled people.
In one sentence, what has the Access to Elected Office Fund meant to you?
It has made me think that maybe there is space for someone like me in politics.
Three words to describe your experience of standing for election?
Intimidating, interesting, meaningful.
Finish this sentence: “Because of the Access to Elected Office Fund, I can…”
Go canvassing, speak up with confidence, and know that I’m not being left behind.
Thinking about standing in 2027?
Kit’s experience shows what is possible when the right support is in place.
If you’re a disabled person considering standing in the 2027 Scottish council elections, the Access to Elected Office Fund, which is funded by Scottish Government and delivered by Inclusion Scotland, can help remove practical and financial barriers so you can focus on your campaign.
To find out more, visit Access to Politics – Inclusion Scotland or email civicparticipation@inclusionscotland.org.