The RVC supports the 3rd of December as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), as designated by the United Nations.

The annual observance of this day was proclaimed in 1992 with the aim to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities in all spheres of society and development and to increase awareness of the situation of people with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life. The UN’s theme this year is “Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World”. 

As an inclusive organisation, we at the RVC celebrate and appreciate all who are part of our community and we acknowledge the contribution of colleagues, many of whom work with challenges that we may not be aware of.  It is important that we recognise that not all disabilities are visible and be aware of disabilities which may not be immediately apparent but still have an impact on people’s lives; these include mental illness, learning differences, chronic pain and sight or hearing impairments among others.

One way you can be involved in marking this year's IDPD, is to take part in the #purplelightup 24-hour broadcast, which will be a global online event including webinars, interviews and panel discussions: https://www.purplespace.org/purple-light-up