Why are MPs wearing purple badges in Parliament?

You may have noticed MPs wearing purple badges in Parliament this week. This post explains what these badges mean.

Wednesday 3 December is International Day of Disabled People. To mark this, Scope has shared badges with MPs, and hosted an event in Parliament.

Scope’s purple badges in Parliament

These badges promote our vision of equality for disabled people. We circulated them to be worn on the UN’s International Day of Disabled People as a symbol of our aim for an equal future. We have asked MPs to wear them to mark the day and show Parliament’s support for the disability community.

The meaning of International Day of Disabled People

What is International Day of Disabled People? And what does it represent?

The United Nations (UN) created International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDoDP) in 1992. It has since used this day to champion over three decades of meaningful change. At Scope, we refer to it as International Day of Disabled People. 

This day takes place every year on 3 December. It exists to raise awareness and promote the rights and wellbeing of disabled people. In 2025, the UN theme of IDoDP is amplifying the leadership of disabled people for an inclusive and sustainable future. 

Why is it important to involve MPs?

There are 16 million disabled people in the UK. That’s 1 in 4 of us. Disability affects every community, every workplace, every family. It’s time we treated disability equality as a priority.

Disability isn’t always given the consideration that it should be. In a recent survey, over 4 in 5 disabled people and carers said they feel MPs don’t consider them when debating policies. This needs to change.

Our badges will create more conversations about disability equality in Parliament. It's vital that this topic stays on the political agenda, and that disabled people’s voices are heard.

Our badges allow MPs to demonstrate their commitment to Scope’s vision for disabled people. It's about advocating for the disability community, and for their disabled constituents.

Our International Day of Disabled People event in Parliament

To mark IDoDP, we’re hosting a Parliamentary event. This is an important opportunity for MPs to hear directly from disabled people about their experiences. This can help MPs learn how to be a better ally for their disabled constituents.

Your voice matters

Many MPs attending our event and wearing pin badges did so after they were contacted by our tireless campaigners. Your voice matters, and it’s making a difference. If you’re interested in our campaigns, sign up to become a Scope campaigner.