Episode description:

Paula Peters: A Lifelong Activist for Disability Rights

In this heartfelt and compelling interview, Paula Peters recounts her journey as a disability rights activist starting from the age of eight. Paula discusses her personal struggles with hypermobility syndrome and the fight to keep hydrotherapy services available in Southeast London. She delves into her experiences within the mental health system, challenges with employment, and the impact of political decisions on disabled individuals. Peters highlights her involvement with Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), emphasizing their campaigning efforts, the importance of collective activism, and their fight against austerity and privatization of the NHS. The discussion also explores her views on the current political climate and the necessity of continued activism to secure the rights and dignity of disabled people. Trigger warnings include mentions of mental health struggles, psychiatric abuse, and the impacts of austerity measures.

Find out more about DPAC: https://dpac.uk.net/about/

Timings of episode running order:

00:00 Introduction to Paula Peters

00:15 Early Activism and Hydrotherapy Campaign

01:42 Mental Health Struggles and Advocacy

04:22 Joining DPAC and Fighting Austerity

14:53 Challenges in the Workplace

17:52 Issues in Mental Health System

22:24 Impact of Political Decisions on Mental Health

27:43 The Need for Systemic Change

31:28 Concerns Over Lifelong Disabilities and Government Reforms

35:06 The Impact of Political Parties on Disability Rights

38:51 Upcoming Day of Action and Campaign Demands

42:57 Challenges in Voting and Political Representation

53:01 Future Hopes and Continued Campaigning

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