November is an important month for Disabled people and our communities. As we mark Disability History Month and look ahead to International Day of Disabled People (IDDP) 2026, it’s a chance to reflect on our history, recognise the activism that has driven change, and celebrate the strength, creativity and leadership of Disabled people today.
In this month’s newsletter, we’re sharing what BDEF has planned for IDDP, alongside events, funding opportunities, reports and other ways to get involved across Bristol. Check out the details for our next film night (plus discount code), our end of year community event and more!
A reminder if you haven't already, please fill in our Equalities Form so we can improve our work, address gaps and challenge barriers our community faces.
BDEF News
Reality of Disabled Hate in Bristol 2026 report and launch
"Disability Hate is not a few independent cases, it is a systemic issue.”
BDEF and Stand Against Racism & Inequality’s 'Reality of Disability Hate Crime in Bristol 2026' report shares Disabled people’s experiences of hate crime and calls for their voices to lead to real change.
We want this report to be more than words on a page. We want it to contribute to real change for Bristol’s Disabled people community.
Hear from Carina Andrews, a BDEF member and co-creator of Invisible Army, on the report and launch event.
Laura's Legacy Micro Community Grant Scheme
Do you have an idea, a group or activity you want to bring to life?
Laura’s Legacy is a new annual micro-grant scheme launching in January 2027, funded by a gift left to BDEF by former Forum Manager Laura Welti.
This grant scheme recognises that within the wider context that Disabled people are living in currently often the barriers that prevent Disabled people from coming together are administrative.
Sign up to be notified of updates. It would be great to hear from you even if its only an idea at this point!
Help us shape a National Trust visit for Disabled people
BDEF is exploring a potential group visit to Tyntesfield in partnership with the National Trust.
Interested in a BDEF group trip to Tyntesfield? Tell us what access or support you’d need to take part.
Events and Opportunities
We encourage you to sign up in advance if you are planning to attend our meetings so we can make sure we can meet your access needs.
You can either sign up on our website or contact us and we can sign you up on our end.
Being Heumann Film Night and Discussion
A powerful film following Judy Heumann’s fight for Disabled people’s rights in America, followed by a panel discussion.
Get 10% off the opening Friday screening with code BEINGBDEF10.
Shaping Services - The Future of Adult Social Care
A session for Disabled people with Learning Difficulties to speak about services they might use, what is working well and what might work better.
Creative Wellbeing Workshops
A space for Disabled people to come together, make art, share ideas, learn from one another and build connections. Special guest on 10th November from LGBTQ+ Little Free Library!
IDDP 2026: Connecting Our BDEF Community
This year, we’re bringing our BDEF community together for an afternoon of connection, food, creativity and Disabled joy (including our AGM but also food)!
Have your say
Focus group opportunity
Compass Presents (an independent Bristol Arts Company) is recruiting new members to their focus group which helps shape Bristol's cultural scene.
You'll be paid for your time consulting on and co-creating work. Deadline to apply 9th November 2026.
Council consultation
Bristol City Council has launched their 2027 to 2028 budget consultation.
Community events
ESOL conversation club
ESOL Conversation Club is starting at Easton Community Centre on Tuesdays 11 am to 1 pm.
This class is term time only. No need to book, just drop in. Free of charge.
Robotics and accessibility
UWE is hosting 'At the Crossroads: People, Robotics and the Future of Accessibility' talk.
WECIL AGM
WECIL’s Access All Areas AGM is being held on 11 November 2026.
Its free to attend and lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Multi-sport festival
Join Ignite Bristol's Winter Inclusive Multi-Sport Festival on 22 November held at 224 Youth Zone, BS4 1GQ.
History of Disability talk
Hear from David Turner talk about Resistance: A History of Disability in Britain in this hybrid event held on 23 November 2026.
Protest in Manchester
DPAC and Greater Manchester DPOs are organising a protest at Number 10 North on social care and calling for national independent living.
News and opportunities
Fundraising for local schools
BDEF member Emma Louise is fundraising for mental health and domestic violence packs for local schools.
Easy Read Disability Equality Action Plan
Bristol City Council have published their Disability Equality Action Plan in an Easy Read version.
Recruitment for a business manager
The Cheese Project is a not-for-profit company that helps you keep warm, while saving money and addressing climate impact.
They are recruiting for a new Business Manager for their project.
