Why this project is needed

There are some 770,000 disabled children in the UK who have virtually no role models in literature.

A Scope mini-survey of 35 families with disabled children revealed their frustration at the lack of appropriate images in books.

By identifying with characters in books, young children learn about themselves and the world around them. The absence of images of disabled children reinforces the sense of isolation they often experience. It also affects the attitudes of non-disabled children too.

Accepting disability

Research shows that children as young as three form prejudices against people who are visibly different. They are more likely to accept disability if they see images of disabled people at an early age.

There is a growing recognition within the book world that diversity must be recognised. Not just for its own sake but because there is a large potential market amongst schools, nurseries, playgroups, childminders and parents all eager to buy books which promote a more ‘inclusive’ world.

Once young disabled children are better represented in books, we believe they will be more incorporated in society.

Read more about Scope’s work on inclusion in the early years.

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