The report calls for clearer employer responsibilities, better access funding, and systemic changes. Photo: Shutterstock.
Arts organisation Radical Body has published the findings of its Disability Data Drive, a year-long research project exploring the barriers disabled people face when working in the UK’s creative industries.
More than 250 disabled arts professionals—including MU members who responded to our call for their involvement—contributed their experiences to the study, which brings together evidence on the challenges faced across the sector and identifies areas where support and structural change are most needed.
The report highlights where disabled creatives are encountering the greatest difficulties in their professional lives and outlines practical steps that employers and organisations can take to improve access and inclusion.
Key report findings
- Structural barriers remain widespread, including inaccessible workplaces, inflexible working structures, and inconsistent understanding of access needs among employers.
- Financial insecurity and unpaid labour are common issues, with disabled creatives often covering their own access costs or undertaking additional work to make roles accessible.
- Remote and flexible working can significantly improve access, but these options are often withdrawn or inconsistently offered across organisations.
- Career progression and opportunities are limited, with disabled artists reporting barriers to networking, touring, and professional development.
- The report calls for clearer employer responsibilities, better access funding, and systemic changes to make the creative sector more inclusive and sustainable for disabled professionals.
The full report is available to read online here.
Micro-grants launched for disabled artists
In response to the findings, Radical Body has launched an emergency micro-grant scheme to support disabled artists whose access needs or health conditions make it difficult to leave their homes.
Seven grants of £500 are available to support creative career development. Each award also includes:
- £200 access budget.
- £200 materials budget.
The funding aims to help disabled artists continue developing their creative practice and professional work.
The deadline for applications is 20 April 2026.
View more information on the grant and how to apply.
Further information
Learn more about Radical Body.
For questions or thoughts, please contact info@radicalbodyarts.co.uk.