Disability Equality Is Best Served With Co-Production

Not knowing the answers is OK. Staying that way isn't. In this episode, Esi is joined by Emma Vogelmann, disability policy and campaigns expert and founder of The Wheelchair Activist, to talk about why disabled people need to be involved from the very start of the decisions that affect them.

Emma shares the story behind the campaign to save England's rail ticket offices, where over 90 organisations came together and the public response helped force a government U-turn. From there, Esi and Emma explore what real co-production looks like, how inflexible return to office policies push disabled people out of work, and why accessible services start with clear information and staff who know where to find the answers. Whether you lead a team, run a business or shape policy, this conversation offers practical first steps for building disability equality alongside the people it's for.

In this episode

• How disabled people and allies came together to stop the closure of rail ticket offices
• Why transport is the foundation for work, independence and inclusion
• The real impact of return to office policies and in person interviews on disabled people
• The difference between co-production and consultation
• How to start co-producing a policy when you don't know where to begin
• "Disability admin" and why clear access information makes or breaks a decision
• Quick, low cost adjustments that send a big message to disabled customers
• Where disabled people and businesses can start understanding rights and obligations

Resources mentioned

• Emma's written evidence to the Women and Equalities Committee inquiry on flexible working and disability: https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/167674/html/
• Transport for All, including their helpline and casework support: https://www.transportforall.org.uk
• Purpl, a membership offering discounts for disabled people
• Arlo West, who designed The Wheelchair Activist branding

Connect with Emma
Website: https://www.thewheelchairactivist.com
The Wheelchair Activist podcast: https://www.thewheelchairactivist.com/the-podcast
LinkedIn: Emma Vogelmann

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