Scope Awards 2026 Shortlist Announced: Celebrating Disability Equality Champions
The complete roster of nominees for the prestigious 2026 Scope Awards has been officially unveiled, spotlighting an impressive array of disabled individuals and organisations driving meaningful progress. Among the notable names shortlisted are Cat Burns, the celebrated singer-songwriter from Celebrity Traitors, and Marissa Bode, the acclaimed actress from the film adaptation of Wicked. These nominations highlight the awards' commitment to recognising and amplifying the achievements of the disabled community across various sectors.
Honouring Excellence and Advocacy
The Scope Awards serve as a vital platform to celebrate the remarkable work undertaken by disabled people and their allies in fostering greater equality and inclusion. Through this annual event, Scope aims to share powerful stories, elevate disabled voices, and cultivate a sustained movement towards positive societal change. Metro continues its role as the official media partner for the disability charity's awards, underscoring its dedication to promoting these crucial narratives.
A Prestigious Ceremony with a Purpose
The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place at the iconic Kia Oval in April, with Ade Adepitan MBE confirmed as the host. Ade, a renowned presenter and wheelchair basketball Paralympian, brings a wealth of experience and advocacy to the role. He emphasised the significance of the awards, stating: 'To be hosting the awards is an honour. To have awards that celebrate disabled people who are doing amazing things, it is crucial. It is even more important that the people without disabilities hear these stories.'
Independent Judging and Returning Leadership
Winners will be selected by an independent judging panel composed of a diverse group of disabled individuals who demonstrate a profound commitment to disability equality through their personal and professional lives. Dr Shani Dhanda, last year's Head Judge, will return for a second term. As a Disability Inclusion & Accessibility Specialist, Social Entrepreneur, and Broadcaster, Shani's expertise and advocacy continue to enrich the judging process.
Categories and Sponsorship
This year's awards feature 38 nominees across nine distinct categories, each designed to honour different aspects of disability advocacy and inclusion:
- Celebrity Role Model
- Colleague Network
- Community Group
- Customer Inclusion
- Local Service
- Media Moment
- Purple Pioneer
- Social Media Influencer
- Workplace Champion
Scope is delighted to welcome Evri back as the headline sponsor for the second consecutive year, reinforcing a shared commitment to disability equality.
Voices from Partners and Organisers
Richard Hartley-Parkinson, Executive Editor of Metro, expressed his pride in the continued partnership: 'It is a great privilege for Metro to be partnered with The Scope Awards for another year running. The event is a fantastic opportunity to platform the achievements of the disabled community, and to champion the resilience that people with disabilities show day-in, day-out.'
James Taylor, Director of Strategy, Impact and Social Change at Scope, added: 'The Scope Awards are a true celebration of disability equality champions – the people and organisations who are making a real difference in challenging inequality and driving positive change across the disabled community. This year’s shortlist highlights the creativity, dedication and hard work behind the movement for an equal future where everyone can thrive.'
Personal Commitment from Sponsors
Andrew Griffiths, Health & Safety Workplace Auditor at Evri and a Scope Awards judge, shared his personal connection to the cause: 'Evri is proud to sponsor the Scope Awards for the second year running, supporting our commitment to disability equality. Being involved in these awards is personal to me. I was diagnosed with dyslexia at 26, which helped make sense of the challenges I’d faced. Joining Evri was a turning point, as I found a workplace that respects difference and recognises potential.'
Spotlight on Notable Nominees
The shortlist showcases a breadth of talent and advocacy. In the Celebrity Role Model category, nominees include Cat Burns, who uses her platform to raise awareness about ADHD and autism; footballer Hannah Hampton, who speaks openly about strabismus; award-winning writer Jack Thorne; and comedian Rosie Jones, who founded The Rosie Jones Foundation.
Other categories feature inspiring groups and individuals, such as the BT Able2 Network for Colleague Network, Black SEN Mamas for Community Group, and Primark Accessible for Customer Inclusion. Each nominee exemplifies the innovation and determination driving the disability equality movement forward.
The 2026 Scope Awards promise to be a landmark event, not only celebrating past achievements but also inspiring future action towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
