Understanding the Social Model of Disability

Ruben Carol

While studying business management at university, Ruben attended 2 years of acting classes to help him gain presentation skills he would need as a business owner.

He had been running a successful business for 11 years when he was struck by a hit-and-run  driver while riding his motorbike. He spent 5 weeks in a coma and 6 months in hospital before coming home and continuing to run his business from bed. He was almost unable to mobilise for another 2 years, as doctors tried to save his leg. 

In January 2007 it was decided that his leg would require to be amputated.  After the amputation, later that same year, Ruben found love online and sold everything he owned to move to the UK to join the woman who became his wife.

Looking for a meaningful new career, Ruben decided to fall back on his acting training and became a casualty simulation actor and facilitator for the British military. He then took on roles in film and television and even became a radio presenter. Doing investigative work in the media led him to explore the obstacles faced by Disabled people. 

He continued to learn about disability equality, the difference between the Social Model of disability and the Medical Model of disability as well as disability legislation and how it can help Disabled people.

He then went on to train London Overground front line staff members in disability equality rights, as well as customer services staff, through role play, followed by more extensive training for London Underground staff (4,000 staff members). 

Ruben established himself as disability equality trainer. 

He currently trains Uber and Transport for London, outlining the intricacies of disability related legislation within the Equalities Act 2010.  Senior managers also get his training, so everybody is involved in making travelling for people with disabilities more accessible.

Ruben continues to work in film and television but his passion lies in public speaking and delivering disability equality training across the UK.

Training aims:

• Understand where attitudes come from and how they have changed over time
• Highlight the importance and value of the Social Model
• Gain a brief overview of the Equality Act and learn what is expected of service providers in the UK

Be aware of respectful language and etiquette

Create a more inclusive environment for staff, clients, volunteers, pupils etc

Training methods:

• PowerPoint presentation
• Group activities
• Quizzes
• Video talk
• Discussions