Mission Service

Supporting People with Disabilities

Equipping corps to support children and adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We are committed to being a church and charity where everyone belongs and is valued. Developed by the Enabled, Children and Youth, and Family Ministries teams, this ministry aims to support children, families, adults and communities impacted by disability, and equip those who journey alongside them.

You are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:28

All individuals, regardless of their abilities, should be able to participate fully in the life of the church.

Whether you’re an officer, employee, volunteer, leader or are simply seeking information about supporting people with disabilities, this page will equip you to navigate the topic of inclusion, offering guidance on pastoral care and accessibility.

Every person is equally valuable and made in the image of God.

The life and ministry of the Church are made whole through the presence, gifts, and participation of people with disabilities. Each person reflects the image of God and contributes uniquely to the body of Christ.

Scripture affirms: 'There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus' (Galatians 3:28). This unity embraces all abilities and experiences, reminding us that no one is marginal, and every member is indispensable.

Our mission is to embed practices that ensure children, adults and families living with a disability both visible and hidden are given real opportunities to participate in every activity of The Salvation Army.

Many people with disabilities face barriers when joining churches or community programmes.

True inclusion means moving beyond ramps and accessible toilets to challenge the underlying assumptions that have shaped our communities for generations. Inclusion is not simply about presence, it’s about partnership, leadership, and celebration.

Physical: Physical barriers include stairs, narrow doorways, inaccessible toilets, poor signage, narrow pathways and inadequate lighting that hinder or prevent access for people with disabilities.
Social and attitudinal: Sometimes the biggest obstacles are assumptions, negative stereotypes, lack of understanding, or feeling awkward or fearful when interacting with disabled individuals, leading to avoidance and social exclusion.
Unconscious bias: Traditional church structures and mindsets are often not designed to accommodate disabled people, leading to exclusion.
Misconceptions: Some viewpoints may wrongly portray disabled people as passive, pitiable, or as needing constant assistance rather than having equal value.
Communication: Complex language, fast-paced services, lack of assistive technology, inaccessible formats, and lack of visuals can exclude people unintentionally. Worship styles may not be inclusive of people with sensory impairments, neurodivergence, or learning disabilities.

Tailored advice and guidance: Support for your specific church, group or service setting, which can include site visits.
Access audits: Reviews of physical and sensory accessibility, with practical recommendations.
Easy read and alternative formats: Materials in plain English, pictorial guides, and large print.
Accessible worship sessions: Services designed to be inclusive of all abilities, including sensory-friendly options.

If you need information, guidance or advice please contact us for support at enabled@salvationarmy.org.uk.

In person and online training is available for teams, employees, volunteers, leaders and congregations on inclusive practice and disability awareness.

For neurodiversity and disability awareness training, email enabled@salvationarmy.org.uk.
For children's leaders training, email ChildrenYouth@salvationarmy.org.uk.

Learn more about children's leaders training