Disability Assumptions by Ross Lannon

I pride myself on being a positive person but if there’s one thing that always annoys me, it’s the general assumptions made towards people with disabilities.  Being approached by strangers and asked personal questions can be a regular occurrence for many disabled people.  With that being said, it got me thinking about the most common assumptions/stereotypes that people tend to make.

Work

It’s often presumed that many disabled people cannot work.  In certain situations this may be the case, but more likely than not, one of the main reasons for disability unemployment is due to poor accessibility.  We have skills to offer too!   I used to work as an Admin Assistant in a nursing home.  My job involved a lot of computer-based work (recruitment, payroll, HR) as well as manning a busy reception environment.  One assumption was that just because I WORKED in a nursing home, I must also have LIVED there.  This may sound ridiculous, but I kid you not, it was a regular question that I was asked due to my disability.

Driving

Last year I attended a meeting where the company involved paid for our travel expenses.  On handing out the expenses forms I was instantly overlooked, as the two abled-bodied people sat either side of me were automatically given forms for driving.  An assumption was made that I did not or could not drive.  Technology has advanced so much these days, why would you assume that I cannot drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle?  I’ve been in charge of a wheelchair for the majority of my life, so it’s safe to say that I definitely have the motor skills!

Dating

BREAKING NEWS…people with disabilities can have relationships too!  In the past, I have used my blog to document many conversations around disability and dating, including a Tinder meet-up of mine that didn’t quite go to plan…

So there we have it, these are just a few of the disability assumptions that I have faced over the years.  Situations like these have helped motivate me in the past and I hope to continue to use my platform to break down these negative stereotypes.

If you have a disability and have been subject to any other assumptions over the years – please get in touch and let us know.  There are so many aspects to this conversation, we could easily share a part two!  Should you wish to stay up to date with my adventures, you can subscribe to my blog for free at www.alifeonwheels.co.uk. Or follow me on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (@rosslannon).