A new toolkit for disabled councillors
June marked an exciting step forward for inclusion in local government, as the LGA unveiled its new Toolkit for Disabled Councillors.
Co-produced with members of the Local Government Disability Champions Network (LGDCN), this practical guide is more than just a resource – it is a statement of intent, rooted in lived experience and shaped by the people it’s designed to support.
The LGDCN operates with a powerful guiding principle: ‘Nothing about us without us.’
The network brings together disabled councillors and allies to share good practice, raise awareness of barriers to inclusion and promote the voice of disabled people in local government.
This toolkit, funded by the UK Government as part of the LGA’s Sector Support Offer, speaks directly to real-world challenges, offering clarity and tangible solutions.
Whether you’re newly elected or already navigating the complexities of council life, this guide is designed to meet you where you are. Importantly, it recognises that disability isn’t always defined by a formal diagnosis. If aspects of your role feel more difficult because of neurodivergence, a health condition or impairment, this toolkit is for you. No labels are required.
Built on the social model of disability, the toolkit shifts the focus away from individuals and towards the environments around them.
It explores how design, processes and attitudes can create barriers – and, crucially, how they can be reimagined to foster inclusion.
Inside, you’ll find three sections:
- your rights as a newly elected councillor – a clear and accessible guide to the support available
- a guide to reasonable adjustments – including a model policy and reasonable adjustments passport
- a guide to the UK government’s Access to Work grant scheme – helping councillors understand what support they can access and how.
Each section has been shaped by steering groups of councillors and officers from the LGDCN, drawing on their lived experience. The content reflects what matters most to members, answering key questions such as:
- Are councillors eligible for Access to Work support?
- Do I need a formal diagnosis to ask for help?
- What adjustments could make my role more manageable?
- What does good practice actually look like in action?
The toolkit is designed to become part of everyday council life – from induction programmes to ongoing support conversations. Accessible online at the LGA website, it is also available in print by emailing leadership@local.gov.uk.
Looking ahead, the LGDCN is set to share this resource widely, encouraging councils across the country to continue the journey towards greater accessibility.
Develop your leadership skills
Applications are now open for cohort five of the LGA’s Disabled Councillors Leadership Programme.
This programme is a unique opportunity to grow your skills, confidence and experience, working with other disabled councillors and developing as a cohort of peers.
Councillors can find out more, and apply by completing a short online form, at the LGA website.
- If you’re inspired to get involved, the network is open to new members ready to champion inclusion and help shape what comes next – email leadership@local.gov.uk to join.