Still Loud. Now Leading. Introducing RAWD: A Charity for a New Era of Disability Pride

Share:

This July, RAWD launches as a registered charity – a bold new step in a decade-long journey of championing disabled creativity. RAWD launches with a programme of trailblazing events throughout  Disability Pride Month. At a time when disabled people are facing mounting challenges through renewed cuts to welfare and essential services it’s more important than ever that disabled voices are turned up.

In a climate where rights are being rolled back, RAWD is doubling down on protest, pride and power. They’re not just celebrating, they are leading the change.

At the heart of RAWD’s Charity Launch is “Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You”, a radical new performance created in collaboration with award-winning Ugly Bucket Theatre. This urgent and electrifying show explores the history and future of disability protest – loud, physical, unapologetic.

“There’s no pride without protest. We’re becoming a charity not to play it safe – but to push further, shout louder, and platform our disabled artists who are changing the world.” – Alice Lapworth, RAWD Co-CEO and Creative Producer

Join RAWD this Disability Pride Month for a month-long programme of events across Merseyside and Cheshire, showcasing new work, co-creations, and the artists who’ve shaped RAWD’s evolution. This is more than a celebration. It’s a statement.

Events such as ‘Directing Difference’ feature disabled artists realising their own cutting edge creative projects. The short film showcase at Liverpool arts hub FACT features first time directors Sam Hooper and Alana Wadkin. Wadkin’s film was made possible through developing technology which helped her communicate her music video vision with RAWD collaborators. 

Another highlight is a performance at Belle Vale’s Valley Theatre in partnership with Liverpool care organisation PSS (Person Shaped Support). The co-devised ‘My Way Highway’ is the result of RAWD artists exploring their personal visions of a more accessible world.

“At RAWD, it’s all about creativity, connection, and inclusion. We support people in finding their voice, growing in confidence, and leading change—on stage and in life. Our community is driving real impact, and as we grow, we’re only getting stronger in how we empower and support disabled people.” – Steffi Sweeney, RAWD Co-CEO and Artistic Director

RAWD’s charity launch programme begins with a special event at the Unity Theatre on 3 July 2025. Tickets.

Find out more and learn how you can support RAWD by clicking here.

RAWD (Random Acts of Wildness Disability) is a Liverpool based charity giving disabled people access to life through creativity, training and community.