Celebrity Traitors and Wicked stars among the full list of nominees for Scope Awards 2026

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Celebrity Role Model

Cat Burns

Cat Burns is a singer-songwriter who champions disability equality by sharing her experiences with ADHD and autism. She uses her music and public platform to raise awareness, especially for Black women and LGBTQ+ communities. Burns’s openness helps fans feel seen and supported. Cat advocates for better research and inclusion. Her success in music brings attention to neurodivergence and diversity in the industry. Cat starred in the Celebrity Traitors, where she spoke about her lived experiences as a neurodivergent woman.

Hannah Hampton

Hannah Hampton is a footballer for the Lionesses who champions disability equality. She speaks openly about her eye condition, strabismus. And uses her platform to challenge misconceptions in sport. Hannah shares her lived experiences on social media and in interviews, inspiring others. She learned British Sign Language to support her deaf cousin and advocates for mental health. Her story reaches millions, raising awareness and encouraging inclusion for disabled people. Hannah has a huge reach, with over 16 million people tuning in to the 2025 Women’s Euros final.

Jack Thorne

Jack Thorne is a BAFTA and Emmy-winning writer who champions disability equality. Thorne was diagnosed with autism and cholinergic urticaria. He co-founded Underlying Health Condition and sits on the steering committee of the TV Access Project. Their goal is to improve access and support for disabled talent in the entertainment industries. Their work has seen 10 of the UK’s biggest broadcasters commit to full inclusion by 2030. Thorne’s work, like the Netflix drama Adolescence, sparks debate and promotes positive change for disabled people.

Rosie Jones

Rosie Jones is comedian, actor and writer. She continues to amplify disabled voices through her creative work, including the sitcom Pushers. The show set new standards for representation both on and off-screen. Beyond her roles as a writer and actor, Rosie actively contributes to campaigns for minority rights. In 2025, Rosie launched The Rosie Jones Foundation, which provides access to lived experience-led counselling delivered by and for people with cerebral palsy. It also provides access to events and workshops to foster community.

Colleague Network

BT Able2 Network

The Able2 Network champions disability and neurodiversity inclusion across the BT Group. The network relaunched in 2025 to support colleagues. They have achieved this through lived experience-led events, policy change, and frontline accessibility. Able2 created Colleague Circle calls for open, safe conversations. And has influenced hybrid working guidance and pay gap action. Its inclusive structure means anyone, from engineers to executives, can engage. Able2 is creating lasting change for disabled colleagues, families, and future leaders.

Google UK Disability Alliance Partnership

Google’s Disability Alliance employee resource group helped launch seven Accessibility Discovery Centres internationally. These centres give disabled people hands-on access to assistive technology and encourage collaboration. Over 3,000 visitors have joined since the London pilot. The initiative improved product accessibility for millions. As well as providing grant funding for initiatives supporting disabled people. The ERG has also teamed up with charities. Together, they have created new tech demos and supported diverse disabled communities.

Hull Truck Theatre

Hull Truck Theatre’s Inclusion Access Group champions disability equality. They meet quarterly to improve access. This includes updating guides and introducing new features like stoma-friendly and gender-neutral toilets. The group supports staff training in disability awareness and BSL. They offer accessible performances and work with local groups to ensure everyone feels welcome. This has included initiatives for minority groups like the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, and refugees. They are a Disability Confident employer and have Theatre of Sanctuary status.

OVO Neurodiversity

The OVO Neurodiversity network supports nearly 10% of OVO staff. It creates a safe space for neurodivergent colleagues through monthly meetings. As well as educating staff across the organisation. The network has improved hiring, training, and communication to be more accessible. It launched guides, e-learning, and events to raise awareness. The group also works with other networks to support people facing multiple forms of discrimination. This makes OVO more inclusive for everyone.

Community Group

Black SEN Mamas

Black SEN Mamas is a nationally recognised organisation supporting Black families raising disabled children. It provides culturally responsive spaces and specialist support. This includes legal advocacy, practical guidance and neurodivergence awareness. As well as mental health intervention through therapeutic programmes. Black SEN Mamas highlights systemic inequalities and helps inform local and national policy. Support is delivered through accessible online and in-person communities and programmes, alongside SEND advocacy. The organisation is widely recognised for empowering families through lived experience.

CRIPtic Arts

CRIPtic Arts supports disabled people to make creative work and share their stories through words and performances. They employ disabled creatives and offer accessible opportunities. They also cover support costs so everyone can take part. Their team is led and staffed by disabled people. Their programmes are co-designed with other disabled people. CRIPtic Arts prioritises inclusion, especially for those facing extra barriers. They have put work by disabled people on major stages. Their work has transformed perceptions of disabled people’s narratives and experiences

Stopgap Dance Company

Stopgap Dance Company is a global leader in inclusive dance. They champion Disability equality on and off the stage. They are led by Disabled artists and a diverse creative team. Stopgap creates opportunities for Deaf, Disabled, neurodivergent, and non-disabled people to train, perform, and lead.  Stopgap challenges prejudice and changes how people see difference. They achieve this through accessible practice, mentorship, and artistic excellence. They prove that inclusion strengthens creativity and drives positive change.

The Parks Trust Access Ambassadors

The Parks Trust Access Ambassadors are a group of disabled people who advise on making Milton Keynes parks more accessible. The Ambassadors are a diverse group made up of disabled people from different communities. Their work has aided improvements to park infrastructure, signage, and event planning. They have also co-designed solutions such as wheelchair-friendly benches and handrails. They collaborate with local organisations and influence policy, ensuring disabled voices are heard. Their creative ideas and lived experience drive positive change for all disabled people.

Customer Inclusion

Anatome Education CIC

Anatome Education CIC improves representation for disabled and marginalised people in medical education. They have produced over 1,000 educational images. These included diverse models, such as disabled, trans, and ethnically minoritised individuals. Resources like the Through My Eyes series help professionals understand real experiences. Their images achieved recognition in the 2025 Portrait of Britain competition. Highlighting the importance of inclusive representation on a national scale. Anatome collaborates with disabled people. This makes education more inclusive and ensures everyone feels seen and valued.

Morgan’s Butchery

Morgans Butchery transformed its shop into a barrier-free space, co-designed with disabled people. They trained staff, improved layouts, and used accessible labels to welcome everyone. Their Breaking Barriers project shares these ideas with other businesses and organisations. Morgans, guided by lived experience, helps people from all backgrounds. This includes those facing additonal barriers. Their work proves that small businesses can lead in accessibility. And inspire others locally and globally.

Primark

Accessible Primark is dedicated to making fashion retail more inclusive for disabled people. Primark launched an adaptive clothing line co-created with disabled designer Victoria Jenkins. As well as introducing NaviLens codes for visually impaired customers. And improving in-store assistance. Primark worked with the disabled community to co-design products and audit stores. This has embedded accessibility throughout the shopping experience. Their campaigns feature diverse talent and authentic lived experiences. Accessible Primark brings affordable, inclusive fashion to physical stores. This gives disabled customers dignity, choice, and style.

Southampton City Farm

Southampton City Farm has worked to make their site more inclusive and accessible. They worked alongside over 55 groups of people with different needs, from visual impairment to mobility support needs. In 2025, they created new pathways enabling access to all areas of the farm. As well as introduceding BSL and braille signage, and improving general signposting. The project is co-produced with people who have lived experience of disability. Diverse staff and volunteers deliver meaningful paid opportunities, ensuring the farm is inclusive and magical.

Local service

Access the Dales

Access the Dales makes the countryside open to everyone. They set up wheelchair hubs and guided walks, helping disabled people explore nature. Their children’s festival welcomed over 350 families with disabled children. They work with people from all backgrounds, including those facing extra barriers. Disabled people help lead and shape their work. Access the Dales breaks down barriers and creates a welcoming, inclusive outdoor community.

Circus Starr

Circus Starr’s mission is to transform and enrich the lives of disabled and disadvantaged families across the UK. They create an inclusive experience by dimming lights and lowering volume. As well as offering BSL interpretation. There is a mobile Changing Places facility at every show, and free Sensory Story packs available as a pre-visit tool. They embark on three annual nationwide tours, delivering 148 performances in 74 communities. Social, physical and financial barriers are removed to create an inclusive theatre experience for every child.

Rotherham Parent Carers Forum

Rotheram Parent Carers Forum (RPCF) is run by and for SEN families. They work with local authorities, the NHS, and community partners. PRCF reduce isolation and support families through accessible activities. Their work shapes local services, making them fairer and more inclusive. The group prioritises disabled voices. RPCF’s team uses lived experience to drive change and create a supportive, welcoming community for all.

West London Performing Arts Academy

West London Performing Arts Academy (WLPA) champions disability equality through inclusive education and community performing arts. WLPA delivers accessible classes for disabled and non-disabled young people. They remove barriers and support individual needs while celebrating diversity. Through creative learning, students build confidence, friendships and gain job opportunities. WLPA empowers every young person to feel heard, safe and seen. Enabling them to thrive and be the best version of themselves.

Media moment

Chris McCausland’s alternative Christmas speech, Channel 4

On Christmas day, 2024, Chris McCausland delivered Channel 4’s Alternative Christmas Message. He used his platform to champion disability equality. He spoke about workplace discrimination, the disability employment gap, and the importance of Access to Work. His speech reached millions, raised public awareness, and inspired further campaigning. Chris’s message was clear, direct, and delivered with humour. His direct challenge to Government helped change perceptions and support disabled people across the UK.

Chris Packham: Inside our Minds, BBC

Chris Packham’s ‘Inside Our Minds’ is a documentary series that explores the lives of neurodivergent people. The series combines real-life experiences, expert insights, and creative short films. It explains neurodiversity in a clear and accessible way. It challenges stereotypes and promotes understanding of neurodivergence. The show reaches a wide audience through BBC Two and iPlayer. The series highlights diverse voices and encourages acceptance and inclusion for all.

Code of Silence, ITV

Code of Silence is a crime drama series about a deaf woman who is recruited by the police to use her lip-reading skills. The show authentically portrayed Deaf experiences and highlighted real challenges like Access to Work. It also used British Sign Language (BSL) to create an engaging story for Deaf and hearing audiences. They recruited crew from diverse backgrounds, promoted inclusion, and made all materials accessible. Their work reached millions, raised awareness, and encouraged better communication with disabled people.

Marissa Bode as Nessa Rose in Wicked

Marissa Bode made history as the first wheelchair user to play Nessarose in Wicked. Her performance set new standards for authentic disability representation in film. She worked closely with the team to ensure accessibility on set. And advocated for inclusion during press events. Marissa’s role inspired many disabled people and challenged stereotypes. As well as raising global awareness about disability equality. Her work has opened doors for future disabled actors.

Pushers, Channel 4 

Pushers is a comedy series co-created by Rosie Jones. The show highlights the realities of the disability benefits system. It promotes authentic representation and showcases disabled talent. It used an accessible set and an access coordinator to ensure inclusion. Pushers entertains and educates, reaching a wide audience and inspiring disabled people to pursue creative careers. The series sets a new standard for diversity and inclusion in media.

V&A Museum, Design and Disability exhibition

The Design and Disability exhibition at the V&A Museum South Kensington celebrated disabled creativity and talent. It made accessibility a priority, with features like audio descriptions, wide layouts, and free access guides. The exhibition highlighted the diversity of disabled people. Including those facing multiple marginalisation. The exhibition raised public awareness. And showed that disabled people deserve respect and recognition for their talents.

Purple Pioneer

Amaira and Eva Deotale

Amaira and Eva Deotale are 11-year-old twins and founders of Being Purple. Being Purple champions disability inclusion in schools and communities. They deliver awareness sessions and write children’s books. As well as publishing a school magazine to help young people understand empathy and inclusion. They also create AI tools that answer questions about disability. Their TEDx talk, Rethinking Disability, challenges attitudes and inspires change. Making disability inclusion accessible, relatable, and meaningful for everyone.

Cora Beth Fraser

Cora Beth Fraser champions disability equality in distance learning. She has pioneered neurodiversity-friendly teaching through the ‘Relaxed Tutorial Project’. Which has improved attendance and reduced anxiety for students. Cora created an app for parents of autistic children with advice from autistic adults. She also advocates for intersectional inclusion, highlighting class and race in disability conversations. She uses her lived experience to contribute to national groups supporting diverse disabled voices.

Shezad Nawab MBE

Shezad Nawab MBE is a Deaf British Asian entrepreneur, speaker, and author. He is multi-award-winning and uses six sign languages: British, American, Moroccan, South African, Arabic, and International. Shezad turns his experiences into ideas for inclusive growth. He works both nationally and internationally. He supports Deaf, CODA, Hard of Hearing, disabled, and hearing professionals. He does this through advocacy, asset investment, business strategies, and inclusive leadership. His goal is to promote accessibility, economic participation, and social change.

Yasmin Darling

Yasmin Darling is a disabled mum making education accessible for disabled young people who are unable to attend traditional schools. She has created a community-based option with an adapted national curriculum. And a bespoke neuro-affirming pedagogy. Yasmin’s work provides an inclusive space where students can learn, socialise, and build confidence. The program adapts to each child’s needs, helping them thrive and form friendships. Yasmin’s approach values diversity and supports low-income families. She champions disabled people from all backgrounds.

Social Media Influencer

Chronically Jenni

Chronically Jenni is a disabled content creator and speaker who champions disability equality. She shares practical tips, lived experience and inclusive content online. Her content reflects a wide range of disabilities & experiences. Her work challenges ableist attitudes and breaks down barriers. And spreads disabled joy through fashion, family & adventures. Through her content, Jenni builds a supportive community that helps disabled people feel seen, valued and empowered.

Lucy May Dawson

Lucy Dawson is a disabled content creator and model. She uses humour and bold social commentary to challenge stereotypes about disability. Her videos spotlight ableism, accessibility and the realities of chronic illness. All while pushing back against “inspiration” narratives. Lucy creates relatable, accessible content that increases disability visibility and empowers disabled people. She encourages wider cultural change.

Samraddhi Awasthi

Samraddhi champions disability equality and mental health. She uses her platforms to share honest stories and practical tools for disabled and neurodivergent people. Her content challenges stereotypes and highlights real struggles, reaching hundreds of thousands. At LSE, she improved support for neurodivergent students. She also uplifts voices from LGBTQ+, ethnic minority, and disabled communities. Samraddhi’s work shows that inclusion means real change, not just words.

Tobi Green Adenowo

Tobi Green Adenowo is a disabled activist, cultural worker, and founder of Disabled Power Network. Tobi was the youngest person to influence change in the national GCSE Dance curriculum. Her work is influenced by her lived experience as a care-experienced wheelchair user. Through DPN, she leads intersectional political education, advocacy, and cultural work. Her work is centred on global majority and structurally excluded communities. Tobi challenges tokenism and pushes institutions towards meaningful change through media, storytelling, and community organising.

Workplace Champion

Dave Campbell

Dave Campbell led the Met Police Disability Staff Association, consisting of 7000 members. He introduced toolkits and processes for Reasonable Adjustments. And improved policies for disabled and neurodivergent colleagues. Dave influenced improved training and the developmnent of online resources. He champions good practice,and represents disabled workers subjected to unfair treatment. Dave’s actions helped save lives, making the Met more inclusive. He worked with staff and support groups to achieve Disability Confident accreditation. Dave uses his lived experience to fight disability discrimination and support others.

Hamish Thompson

Hamish Thompson leads disability inclusion at the National Film and Television School. Hamish improved access by completing an audit and implementing changes. They raised £175,000 for bursaries. And helped secure £10 million for accessible student accommodation. Hamish works with partners to support disabled and neurodivergent talent. Their efforts ensure all productions are inclusive. And promote equal opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

Jonathan Andrews

Jonathan Andrews is a leader in disability and neurodiversity inclusion. He has helped over 30 companies change hiring practices. This has made jobs more accessible for disabled and neurodivergent people. Jonathan co-founded projects that support autistic people and created scholarships for disabled and neurodivergent people. He uses his own experiences as an autistic person, as well as a lawyer and local Mayor, to inspire others. His work highlights the value of inclusion and has helped many people find meaningful employment.

Kevin Hubbard

Kevin Hubbard is the Managing Director of Evtec Automotive, and a committed champion of disability equality. He creates accessible, meaningful pathways into work for disabled people. Including launching the paid ‘Step-Up’ programme, which helps former interns build skills, confidence, and independence. Under his leadership, 43% of Evtec’s workforce identify as disabled. Kevin ensures lived experience and diversity shape recruitment and systems. He sets a standard of inclusion that others across the industry are inspired to follow.