In August 2023, Kingston upon Thames Council secured funding from the London Councils Engagement Grant for one part-time Project Officer to set up and run the Kingston Disability Network.
In October 2023 the network was launched at a Kingston Council-hosted event:
Link to Kingston Council News Page
The aim was to build an inclusive network to create a collective, stronger voice for those with disabilities in the Borough. The network currently comprises around 100 individual members. These are either as persons with lived experience, or as a representative from organisations in the borough specifically catering for the needs of disabled residents.
Funding from the London Councils Engagement Grant ran out in July 2024. Since then, the Network has continued to meet with the aim to becoming self-sustaining and to be co-produced with Members. The KDN are becoming a critical friend and challenger to the Council, and other agencies within the borough.
In the middle of July 2025, at the Kington Disability Network AGM, a Steering Group was elected. This comprises of: Chair, Deputy Chair, Secretary, and 5 Steering Group Members. Initially, this group will meet monthly, dealing with the kinds of issues raised as priorities by the members in recent meetings, as well as setting the agenda for the “conference-style” meetings for the whole group, which will be held every few months starting in 2026, and give a much wider opportunity for face-to-face networking, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ:
Is the Kingston Disability Network open to the public?
The Network is open to all – public individuals, organisations, charities, etc. Anyone with any link to disability in any capacity is free to join.
How is the Network supported?
The Network is supported by grants. We are looking to apply for some now, and as our leadership is voluntary, we can sustain ourselves via grants and potential charitable donations. Whilst we achieve these grants, RBK Council are supporting us by renting out spaces for our meetings. We are unable to use this money ourselves, and we only have at most one or two meetings’ worth of funds left. Once this is used up, we will be financially independent from the Council. Please contact us if you have any grants you think we could benefit from.
Can the Network support my local business or service?
The Kingston Disability Network supports disabled people in the borough of Kingston. If your business or service works in the borough, then you are welcome to reach out to us. We can see if we can provide advisory support or practical tips to improve accessibility and inclusion for you.