Able network

Mission statement

Able is a disability network that creates a supportive community for disabled staff, postgraduate research students and allies. We represent the views of our members through university-wide committees and forums, advocating for disability inclusion and neurodiversity-affirming practice. We work to improve access and equity for disabled staff and students at Imperial.

What are the benefits of joining Able?

"Able has been an amazing source of support, strength and education on disabilities and being neurodivergent. It makes me feel included and part of a community that cares about each other’s well-being." - Able member

The Able network:

• Creates a safe and accessible space to build connections through shared lived experience
• Provides peer support and guidance, listening and engaging with others to understand their challenges and how best to support them
• Raises awareness of barriers to inclusion or opportunities at key committees across Imperial
• Represents disabled members concerns where there are changes to policies or practice, ensuring disabled voices are heard
• Creates meaningful change through collaboration
• Celebrates Disability Pride and Disability History Month, shaping our understanding and acceptance of Disability as a positive identity
• Holds a coffee morning for members every Friday (details below)

Able welcomes those who live with a disability and/or physical or mental health condition, whether life-long, newly acquired, self-identified or diagnosed, regardless of whether they identify as disabled or not. 

We also encourage allies who are supportive of disability equality and equity in the workplace, including Managers and PhD Supervisors.

The Able community

Able provides a space for members to connect using Teams on Office 365.

We meet online for a virtual coffee morning every Friday (9.00 - 10.00). Members can discuss topics relating to disability, share their lived experiences and become part of a community.

Ad-hoc themed coffee mornings are arranged with guests speakers; if you would like to speak at an Able coffee morning, please contact the Co-chairs directly or email Able.

Become an Able Committee member

Are you interested in disability and passionate about creating positive change at Imperial? We would love you to be part of our committee, where you can develop new skills, meet people from different areas, and help drive cultural change.

As a committee member, you'll participate in various activities, such as organising events and providing feedback on disability-related policies and procedures. The time commitment is flexible, averaging about an hour a week.

Co-Chairs

• Adrian Mannall, Co-Chair
• Dez Mendoza, Co-Chair
• Sara West, Interim Co-Chair

Committee members

• Eleni Erotokritou
• Tamsin King
• Lillie Pakzad-Shahabi
• Aabida Patel

Executive Sponsors

• Tony Lawrence
• Richard Martin