A group promoting accessibility and inclusion have expressed deep concern at the 'dangerous' narrative around disability.

Congleton's Equal Access Advisory Group say they are 'dismayed' by the wave of negativity spreading across social media and in public conversations.

This follows recent UK government announcements regarding changes to disability benefits.

The group feel that disabled people are increasingly being portrayed as a burden to society, blamed for their circumstances, and judged unfairly without any understanding of the barriers they face every day.

Mayor of Congleton, councillor Kay Wesley, who works with the Equal Access Advisory Group, said: "This narrative is not only deeply hurtful, it is dangerous.

"The reality is that many disabled people want to do paid work, but the infrastructure simply isn't there to support them.

"Whether it's inaccessible transport, inadequate support services, or lack of reasonable adjustments in workplaces, the barriers are systemic, not personal failings."

Councillor Wesley recently attended a jobs fair at the Town Hall (Credit: CTC)

Congleton's Equal Access Advisory Group highlighted that facilities such as public transport, office buildings, streets and other infrastructure have mostly been designed without accessibility in mind.

Meanwhile, health services are often underfunded with long waiting lists.

All of these factors make it more difficult for people with disabilities and health conditions to go to work and participate fully in society.

Councillor Wesley added: "I recently attended a jobs fair at the Town Hall organised by Job Centre Plus, which focused on potential employees with access needs, and it was clear to me that when businesses and training providers take steps to include people, everyone benefits.

"The organisations get qualified and loyal workers, and people with health conditions and disabilities get the career fulfilment they deserve and financial stability they need."