Back in September 2013 the UK government rolled out what would essentially be the worst decision for disabled children and their families in years. They gave local authorities the power to penalize and fine families who took their children out of school during term time. Since then, children with disabilities (both mentally and physically) have had to either conform or risk fines, or worse, prison time.

This needs to change!

The Equality Act 2010, is a UK law that protects individuals from discrimination based on various characteristics, including disability. It legally defines disability and prohibits discrimination in various areas like employment, education, and access to goods and services. The Act also mandates "reasonable adjustments" for disabled individuals to ensure equal access and participation. 

Since the signing of the Equality Act in 2010 there is no denying that life has improved for both the disabled community and their families - and I'm not here to take away from the progress being made. However, I want to focus on one small section of the act: "reasonable adjustments" for disabled individuals to ensure equal access and participation. 

Let me give you some background around my family and why I believe in this campaign. 

Were a family of five - four of whom are diagnosed or awaiting diagnosis of Autism, ADHD or AuDHD. My eldest son is confirmed Autistic and also has a learning disability. He attends a special educational setting. My younger two sons are waiting on assessments (18 months and counting, but that's a different story) whilst my partner was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 31  last year. She is also waiting on an ADHD assessment and has been diagnosed with mental health struggles too. I am essentially the only neurotypical person in my family.

We purchased our first caravan in 2018 (before it became cool during COVID) and have always holidayed in the UK during school holidays, however, since the boom of the stay-cation it is becoming more and more difficult to enjoy and relax on holiday as a disabled family. 

The sheer volume of people that now flock to the English Coast, Yorkshire and other popular UK holiday destinations during the school holidays has almost gone up almost 200%. Snaptrip reported a 284% increase in demand for self-catered accommodations after the initial lift of lockdown in 2020, but since then it has held at ~180-220% per year. That's a lot more people staying in Britain for their holidays. 

Now imagine, your a disabled person, someone with a neurological condition such as autism, ADHD etc. All of these extra people now make holidaying impossible. Not only are you dealing with possibly new and unfamiliar places, but you're also dealing with large crowds, loud and rowdy environments, no space to walk or escape the noise. Leaving you little to no enjoyment of the yearly vacation. Leading to meltdowns and constantly feeling overwhelmed. A lot of people don't go out. 

The same can be said for those with mobility issues. No space for wheelchairs or electric mobility aids. No parking near destinations to make life easier. It's all adds up and makes a holiday from hell, rather than having time to relax, unwind and enjoy a break. 

What we have found is that the only time you can go out is after 5pm as most people go home - but by that point everywhere is closed and the weather is already starting to turn. It's no longer an enjoyable experience! A holiday should allow you to unwind, relax and get ready to face a life's daily struggles - and these are constant for those who are disabled. 

Therefore, as the title suggests, I believe that disabled pupils and their families should not face the fear of prosecution should they decide to take their child/family away during term time. I'm asking for 2-4 weeks leeway per year where schools have permission to grant a leave of absence with the fear of fines or worse. 

Why 2-4 weeks? Well, that's simple. It takes disabled people a lot longer to settle into a holiday than it would a neuro typical person. We always holiday for two weeks, because the first three days are completely overwhelming - new place, new smells, new noises, unable to relax etc. so realistically a 14 day holiday is more like a ten day holiday when you take into account travelling. The same can be said for those with mobility issues - finding the best paths to take, searching for places that are wheelchair friendly etc. These things all eat into holiday time.

I hope you understand my reasoning and can get behind this campaign.