Physical Disability (PD)
- Physical disability is about access, not ability
- Schools have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010
- Technology has transformed what's possible for physically disabled children
- Many children with PD achieve as highly as their non-disabled peers
What is Physical Disability?
A physical disability affects a child's mobility, coordination, or ability to perform everyday physical tasks. This includes conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, limb differences, or acquired injuries.
A physical disability doesn't affect how clever your child is. Many children with physical disabilities achieve just as highly as their peers academically — they just need adjustments to the physical environment and equipment.
The key is ensuring that your child can access everything their classmates can — lessons, playtime, trips, clubs, and friendships. Schools have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments.
👀 What you might notice
- Difficulty walking, running, or keeping up with other children
- Using a wheelchair, crutches, or other mobility aids
- Tiring more easily than other children
- Finding PE and certain playground activities challenging or impossible
- Difficulty with handwriting — slow, painful, or illegible
- Struggling with buttons, zips, or shoelaces
- Finding it hard to use scissors, rulers, or other equipment
- Difficulty using a keyboard or mouse effectively
How schools can help
Ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, adapted furniture, and clear pathways
Specialist chairs, desks, writing grips, adapted scissors and ICT equipment
Laptops for writing, voice recognition software, switch access for computers
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy provided during or around the school day
Trained staff to help with transfers, positioning, and personal care where needed
Adapted PE lessons so your child can participate and stay active
🏠 What you can do at home
- Encourage maximum independence — support where needed, but let them try first
- Adapted equipment at home can make a huge difference: bath seats, adapted cutlery, etc.
- Find sports and activities your child CAN do — swimming, wheelchair sports, horse riding
- Connect with disability sports organisations for opportunities in your area
- Talk openly about disability in a positive, matter-of-fact way
- Advocate for your child's right to full access and inclusion in all school activities
🤝 Organisations that can help
🔗 Related conditions
SEN types often overlap. Your child may have more than one area of need. Here are conditions commonly linked to Physical Disability:
Note: This guide is for general information only. Every child is unique, and SEN types often overlap. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your child's school SENCO and your GP. For legal advice on SEN rights, contactIPSEA (free).