Why Young Disabled Voices Matter
Empowering the next generation of changemakers
Right now, decisions are being made that will shape the lives and futures of young disabled people across the UK, ranging from benefit changes to voting rights, digital access, and employment opportunities.
But too often, these conversations happen without young disabled people at the table.
That’s where Coventry Youth Activists (CYA) come in.
Who we are
CYA is a youth-led disability campaign group based in Coventry, powered by passion, creativity, and community organising. We believe in young disabled people having a voice and breaking down barriers to end discrimination both online and offline.
Over the past few years, CYA has:
🏆 Won the Sheila McKechnie Foundation’s David and Goliath Award for our #FacebookHasNoStandards campaign.
💻 Worked with Meta and OFCOM to improve online safety for young disabled people.
🎓 Partnered with the University of Warwick to shape a digital engagement module.
💪 Created the CYA Ally Pack to help others challenge disability hate and ableism online.
🧾 Published a Playbook capturing our years of youth-led campaigning with Grapevine Coventry & Warwickshire.
What’s next
Now, we’re recruiting a new cohort of young activists aged 16–23 from across Coventry and the UK to join our movement. They will learn the tools and tactics needed to launch a campaign.
Why join CYA?
🌍 Join a team of young disabled changemakers.
🗣️ Learn campaigning and organising skills.
🤝 Meet others who care about making change.
🎨 Take part in creative actions and lobbying events.
💼 Gain confidence, friends, and employability skills.
No experience needed — just passion, ideas, and a willingness to make your voice heard.
Get involved
If you’re a young disabled person aged 16–23, or if you work with someone who might be interested, we want to hear from you.
Apply or share with a young person →
Together, we can make sure young disabled voices are not just heard, but lead the way toward a fairer future.
