Access All: Disability News and Mental Health Disabled film director: ‘It was like I was invisible’
Jan 8, 2025
Owen Tooth, the first wheelchair user to direct EastEnders, shares his journey from film to television after feeling invisible in the industry. He discusses the unique challenges he faced and highlights the importance of representation in film. Sam Lewis, a London lawyer dealing with rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s, reveals her struggles with inaccessible rental properties and the reluctance of landlords to accommodate disabled tenants. Their insights shed light on the urgent need for improved accessibility and support in housing and media.
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Renting Challenges with Disabilities
- Sam Lewis, a lawyer with rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease, finds renting challenging due to discrimination and insecurity.
- Frequent moves due to eviction and unsuitable properties add to her difficulties.
Adaptation Requests and Delays
- Landlords often refuse adaptation requests or delay them by demanding OT reports.
- Sam often showers at the gym due to the lack of accessible showers at home.
DFG Application Advice
- Apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) even before an OT assessment.
- Consider 'trusted assessors' for simpler adaptations to avoid OT delays.