Considerate Language
It may be assumed that the language we use when referring to support for
disabled students is a reflection of our overall attitude and approach. It is,
therefore, important that we avoid language which may appear to be negative
or which may cause unnecessary offence.
As language is constantly evolving this can only be a guide to what is
acceptable/preferred. Generally the preferred language always describes
disabled people in an active rather than a passive role. (e.g. ‘wheelchair user’
in preference to ‘wheelchair bound’). Under the social model of disability, the
disabling factor may be within society (e.g. the educational establishment)
rather than the person. It is, therefore, more appropriate to refer to a
individual’s specific impairment (e.g. visual impairment, mobility impairment
etc) rather than implying that it is their disability.
The word ‘special’ (e.g. special needs) when referring to disabled people tends
to either mean extraordinary or not good enough, and is therefore viewed as
patronising. Most disabled people prefer the term ‘disabled people’, rather than
‘people with disabilities,’ and therefore this is the term we recommend.
Language to Avoid
Preferred Language
the disabled
disabled person/people
Handicapped
disabled person
special needs students
disabled students
able bodied
non disabled person
the blind
person with a visual impairment
the deaf
person with a hearing impairment
suffers from/is a victim of/is
crippled by
person who has/person with
Epileptic/dyslexic etc.
person with Epilepsy/Dyslexia
etc.
wheelchair bound
wheelchair user
With respect to examinations, the words ‘concession’ or ‘compensation’ could
imply that the student has received support in order to make the examination
easier. Equally, ‘accommodation’ could imply that a student is included as a
special case, rather than having full inclusion. Alterations to examination
arrangements are not made to give a student an advantage but to ensure that
the student is not at a disadvantage. It is, therefore, important to avoid words
such as ‘concessions’, ‘compensations’ and ‘accommodations’ and to use
words/phrases such as ‘arrangements’, ‘adjustments’, ‘examination provisions’
instead.