How it started
Disabled by Society was founded in 2024 by Celia Chartres-Aris and Jamie Shields, two Disabled friends with a shared mission, to change how people view, think about, and learn about Disability, transforming Disability exclusion into inclusion. They knew that together, they could make a meaningful difference. They were already recognised leaders in their field, it only felt natural to combine their experience and expertise.

The Unlearning Ableism Podcast
Together, they created the Unlearning Ableism podcast, a space to make the uncomfortable comfortable by exploring ableism and internalised ableism with guests. As the podcast grew, so did requests for training, consulting, and speaking. What began as a collaboration between friends with a shared vision, quickly expanded into something much large. A brand, a platform, and a movement for change.
Disabled by Society
On 18 October 2024, Disabled by Society was officially launched. Not as a side project or personal venture, but as a Disabled led organisation. Combining Celia’s law and policy expertise with Jamie’s DEI and recruitment expertise we knew that together we could not only help break down barriers, but eradicate them.

We create award-winning solutions
Our award-winning team

Celia Chartres-Aris
She/ Her
Government Special Advisor, Founder & Investor, Campaigner & Lobbyist, Researcher, Policy & Legal Expert

Jamie Shields
He/ Him
Registered Blind AuDHD Rhino, Speaker, Trainer & Consultant; Content Creator & Disability Advocate
What Our Clients Say
By challenging views on ableism, the Unlearning Ableism duo are paving the way for society to get comfortable with the uncomfortable.
Jemma Redden
Evenbreak
This was one of the best talks we have done.
Elaine Caroll
Google
The folks without disabilities in the room found it enlightening, and those who live with disabilities found it moving and relatable.
Amanda Bennett
Vision Support Barrow & District
I think that may have been one of the best and most useful sessions that I have ever attended in the nearly 20 years that I have been teaching.
Anonymous
Heart of Yorkshire
We received so much positive feedback – people already taking concrete steps to make their work more accessible and disability-inclusive.
Elham Youssefian
International Refugee Assistance Project
I knew as soon as we first spoke that we needed you for the day. The session also gave the confidence to participants who spoke up so we’re seeing such a positive impact already.
Rosie Fermin
Heart of Yorkshire