National Association of Disabled Staff Networks
Defining, Connecting, and Representing Disabled Staff Networks.
Built by disabled people, for disabled people
NADSN is a “network of networks” that unites disabled staff groups and networks across organisations in the UK and internationally.
We bring individuals and networks together to share experiences, strengthen each other’s work, and influence change at a national level, because we believe we’re stronger together.
What We Do
Driving Change Through Collective Strength
NADSN supports and strengthens disabled staff networks and groups by providing a collaborative platform to share best practices, amplify lived experience, and influence policy and workplace culture.
Through our work, we aim to:
Connect disabled staff networks across institutions and regions
Champion the Social Model of Disability and tackle stereotypes
Advocate for inclusive policies and equitable workplace practices
Promote the interests of disabled staff networks on a national level
Support research, guidance, and knowledge-sharing on disability equity
Host accessible events and conferences that bring disabled staff and allies together
Create opportunities for leadership and professional development for disabled staff
While our focus has been on tertiary education, including universities and colleges, we welcome individuals and organisations from all sectors who are committed to advancing disability equity.
You're In The Right Place If...
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You’re a disabled staff member looking for support or connection.
Connection
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You’re leading (or want to start) a disabled staff network.
Leadership
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You’re working to improve inclusion in your organisation.
Inclusion
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You’re navigating barriers and don’t know where to turn.
Guidance
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You’re a disabled researcher looking for support in your area of research.
Support
NADSN exists to make sure you don’t have to figure this out alone.
Our Approach
Led By Lived Experience
For too long, workplace culture has been shaped by the medical model of disability, where disability is seen as an individual impairment or defect that needs to be fixed.
NADSN champions the Social Model of Disability, which focuses on identifying and removing barriers in the workplace and society, and not defining people by their disability.
This perspective informs how we support members, share knowledge, and influence national conversations. Ultimately, through our collective approach, we turn lived experience into meaningful, lasting change.
The NADSN Values
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Solidarity
No one should feel isolated.
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Authenticity
We’re led by disabled people, for disabled people—nothing about us without us.
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Equity Over Equality
We’re committed to removing barriers, not just treating everyone the same.
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Inclusion Without Exception
Across impairment type, sector, and identity.
News
Stay connected with the latest updates, insights, and events from the NADSN community.
Join The Network
Connect With the NADSN Community
Membership is open to disabled staff networks, groups, and fora from higher education institutions (HEIs) and further education institutions (FEIs), as well as individuals and organisations committed to advancing disability equity.
When you join NADSN, you:
Become part of a supportive, peer-led network
Gain access to discussions, events, and shared resources
Contribute to a collective voice shaping change
Whether you actively participate or simply stay connected, there’s space for you here.
Our Approach
Building a National Movement
Founded by Dr. Hamied Haroon, NADSN launched in 2014 with a simple but powerful idea: disabled staff networks across the UK would be stronger if they worked together.
Shaped through collaboration with leaders across the sector, NADSN was created to strengthen and connect disabled staff networks and provide a collective voice for disability equity in the workplace.
Since then, the network has grown to include members from across universities, colleges, public sector organisations, and beyond.
As we move into a new quarter, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work happening across our subgroups.