The language we use about disability is an important way of influencing our own and society’s attitudes. Whizz-kidz offers a list of updated terminology intended to help you. It reflects the views of disabled people themselves and in particular young wheelchair users.
Alternatives to use instead of “Special Needs”
We all have the same needs – to eat, to drink etc. Disabled people are disadvantaged if their needs are not met, the same as you would be. There is nothing ‘special’ about needing Braille, or needing to use a wheelchair to get around. ‘Special needs’ is still widely used and considered acceptable. However, an alternative is ‘specific needs’ (or more formally ‘access requirements’).