Media & Disability
Guide on media & disability
Outside Locations
You may be shooting or recording your programme at an outside location. Some locations can be difficult even for non disabled people (for example, working at heights, or in cramped, dark places or in extreme weather conditions, or dangerous areas of conflict), but even a less demanding location might throw up additional challenges to some disabled people. Obviously if you can do a reconnaissance visit in advance it will be helpful, but in these days of tight budgets this is not always possible, especially on documentaries. If you do have a disabled member in your production team or crew, or disabled performers or participants with you, remember to ask them in advance if they have any particular requirements. Some general points to consider include:
- Some disabled people feel the cold badly, so if there is a lot of waiting around outside, try to have warm clothing or rugs available.
- Some disabled people (for example, with diabetes) may need to eat at regular intervals, so try to have some snacks available. Most people who need special diets are willing to bring food with them if it is difficult for you to provide it, so long as this is discussed in advance.
- Some disabled people may need to use the toilet more frequently than others, so try to ensure facilities are available and nearby.
- Do not assume disabled people are necessarily weak or unfit. In fact many disabled people make a deliberate point of maintaining their health and fitness. But scheduling regular rest breaks is a good idea, even if they are of short duration.