Member Engagement
Our members
Our network is made up of different kinds of members, each playing an important part in the Movement for inclusion and equality.
Members
These are Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs), run by disabled people, where most of the governing bodies are disabled themselves. DPOs work from the social model of disability to promote our human rights. Only organisations in this category can nominate people for our Board or vote at our Annual General Meetings.
Associates
This category is for individual disabled people. While Associates don’t have voting rights, your voice still matters, and your experiences and ideas help shape what we do. We also encourage you to join your local DPO if you can, giving you even more opportunities to influence change.
Affiliates
These are disability organisations not led directly by disabled people. Affiliates play a key role in sharing information and supporting inclusion within disabled communities. With guidance and encouragement, many Affiliates may become DPOs in the future.
Supporters
Supporters are organisations and individuals who want to improve their understanding and practice around disability. Organisations who are not disability organisations may include housing associations, welfare rights agencies or private sector bodies. Individuals who are not disabled people may include carers, family members, or people with an interest in disability, human rights or equalities.
Engage and connect
Our Membership Engagement provides opportunities to connect with other disabled people, organisations and allies across Scotland. Members are invited to take part in events and workshops, including our Annual General Meeting (AGM), networking sessions and member-focused discussions.
These take place both in person and online, with accessibility built in.
Through shared spaces, members can exchange experiences, advice and ideas – building relationships that strengthen the disability rights movement and reduce isolation.
Influence and shape change
Members play an active role in influencing Inclusion Scotland’s work and wider change. You can contribute to policy consultations on issues affecting disabled people and help shape our responses to government, public bodies and decision-makers.
DPO members have formal governance rights, including voting at AGMs and nominating Directors, ensuring Inclusion Scotland remains accountable, representative and led by disabled people. Members also have access to advocacy tools and resources to support campaigning, activism and rights-based work.
Learn and grow
As a member, you gain access to a growing library of resources, including policy papers, research reports, guidance and practical toolkits to support your work and advocacy. We also offer training and development opportunities to help build skills, confidence and knowledge around disability rights and inclusion.
Regular newsletters and updates keep members informed about developments, opportunities and issues affecting disabled people in Scotland.
Why membership matters
Membership gives you a platform to be heard, a community to connect with, and resources to help make change happen.
Together, our collective voices are stronger. By engaging with Inclusion Scotland, you help ensure disabled people’s lived experience is at the heart of decisions that shape our lives.