In Focus

Disabled sailing group faces uncertainty over ferry plan

A proposed Labor plan to introduce a ferry service at Perth’s Matilda Bay has raised concerns for a local disabled sailing group, which relies on calm, accessible waters and shore-based facilities to run inclusive programmes. Advocates warn that increased water traffic and changes to berthing or access could disrupt training, compromise safety, and limit participation […]

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UCT honours disability rights trailblazers

At its spring graduation, the University of Cape Town (UCT) awarded honorary doctorates to two leading disability rights advocates, Dr Mohammed Cassiem D’Arcy and Shaib Chalklen. By Myolisi Gophe – UCT News Dr D’Arcy, an activist and scholar, has long advanced the rights of persons with disabilities through both grassroots organising and academic work. His

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Art and music therapies recognised as life changing

From November, art and music therapists will be able to charge National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) rates aligned with counselling, following an independent review that found these therapies can be effective and “even life changing” for some people with disability. The move formalises their role in participant supports and clarifies pricing after months of uncertainty.

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Dial-a-Ride proves its worth, but support must not slip

Cape Town’s Dial-a-Ride (DAR) service is a rare example of public transport that works for older people living with disabilities — and cutting it back would be a step backwards. An opinion piece highlights how typical clinic or SASSA trips can cost R240 by e-hailing, involve unsafe transfers near taxi ranks, and take seven hours

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Labour Court declines reinstatement bid after workplace injury

A former Glencore employee who was left disabled after a workplace accident has lost his bid for reinstatement in the Labour Court. The Johannesburg court found that his 2020 review application had lapsed after no steps were taken within six months, meaning the matter was treated as archived and effectively dismissed. By Sinenhlanhla Masilela –

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Watchdog calls for stronger Welsh plan on disabled people’s rights

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has urged the Welsh Government to toughen its draft Disabled People’s Rights Plan with clear targets, timelines and regular public progress reports, warning that weak accountability has held back real change. By Wired Gov What the EHRC wants The EHRC welcomed the plan’s long-term intent but said commitments

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SASSA to roll out biometrics in September

Sassa will introduce mandatory biometrics for social grant beneficiaries from September, with the Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment system deployed across all Sassa offices. The agency says the move will help detect and stop fraud in the grant system. By eNCA Biometrics were slated for the start of the current financial year but were delayed after organised

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Guide to free bus pass eligibility in the UK

A free bus pass in the UK is available to individuals who have reached the state pension age—currently 66 in England—and for those with disabilities who meet specific benefit or medical criteria. By Ben Lyons & Fiona Callingham – Nottinghamshire Live Disability-related eligibility covers various conditions and allowances. Qualifying individuals may include those receiving attendance

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Disability sector voices frustration at national dialogue

At the first National Dialogue convention held at UNISA’s Pretoria campus, members of the disability sector voiced strong frustration. Delegates, including those from the Presidential Working Group on Disability, said they felt excluded from both the planning and leadership of the event. By Loyiso Sidimba – IOL Despite the inclusion of Miss South Africa 2024,

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