Scottish Disability Equality Forum will now be called Disability Equality Scotland

A charity has rebranded in order to further its goal of achieving achieving full access and inclusion for disabled people in Scotland.

Following an extensive consultation with members, Scottish Disability Equality Forum will now be called Disability Equality Scotland.

Morven Brooks, its chief executive, said: “This goes much further than just changing our name or our branding.

"This is our opportunity to promote wider discussion on disability equality issues.

“It is important that Disability Equality Scotland retains its established values but at the same time develops a new and modern identity.”

Disability Equality Scotland is the umbrella body for Access Panels in Scotland and since 2003 has worked at a local level to promote independent living for disabled people and to make sure their voice is heard and their views are represented at a government level.

A national charity, it works across Scotland to promote access in its widest sense, including access to the built and natural environment and access to the same opportunities as enjoyed by others in our communities thus promoting a life of dignity, respect, and independence.

Alex Thorburn, acting convenor, added: “Our new name will ensure that the image and the message that disabled people wish to portray and send to the world is better understood and will be a clear definition of our intent to improve the lives of disabled people in Scotland."