Find out where Councillor candidates stand on Disability issues
Created: 14/04/2026
Ruils launches template to help Disabled residents question local election candidates.
Richmond user-led co-production group, Your Say, have created a free template to help Disabled people in Richmond upon Thames contact prospective councillors standing in the upcoming local elections and ask where they stand on disability issues.
The template is designed to support Disabled residents to raise concerns about inclusion, accessibility and equality, and to help voters make informed choices at the ballot box. It can be adapted by individuals to reflect their own experiences and local priorities.
In the draft letter, candidates are asked about:
- their understanding of the social model of disability and whether they believe it should shape council policies and decision‑making
- how they would ensure Disabled people are meaningfully involved in designing local services, public spaces and long‑term plans
- what actions they would take to improve accessibility and reduce barriers in the borough
- their support for a centrally located, council‑owned and maintained Changing Places toilet
Send your letter in 4 easy steps!
1. Download the Template here.
2. Personalise the template by adding ward‑specific issues, such as pavement accessibility, transport barriers or gaps in local services.
3. Find candidates that are standing in your ward on the official notices here. You can also contact the individual parties:
4. Send your letter and make sure to include your contact details so they can send a response to your questions.
We hope this resource will empower you to have your views heard during the election period and put Disability equality firmly on the local political agenda. If you get a response you would like to share with others, please send an email to campaigning@ruils.co.uk
Make sure to vote on Thursday 7th May!
To vote in the election on 7th May, you must register to vote by Monday 20th April and have an accepted photo ID.
