Why your words matter
Some words are unspeakable. So shocking, you wouldn’t dare say them out loud.
The "R" word should be one of them.
But we still hear it.
We still see it.
It's never OK to use that word
In early July 2023, Channel 4 announced that it would be broadcasting a documentary featuring and produced by disabled comedian Rosie Jones that features an ableist slur in its title.
While the title caused a strong reaction from the disability
community
A community is the people and places in an area.
, the documentary itself shows Rosie’s own experiences of online ableist
abuse
Abuse is when someone bullies you and does or says something to you that makes you feel hurt, upset or scared.
and her attempts to get social media companies to take it seriously.
People with a learning disability have been telling us for decades that the r-word should be taken out of circulation. Despite this, we still hear it and we still see it.
The "R" word is deeply traumatising to people with a learning disability. It strips away a person’s humanity, and can feel like a physical assault.
The word should never cross anyone's lips or keyboard.
Help us make the "R" word #unspeakable
Watch our video, narrated by Mencap Ambassador Tommy Jessop, to help you understand the impact the "R" word has on people with a learning disability.
How to stay safe online
It’s great to talk to friends and family on social media and the internet but it’s also important you know how to safe online.
These
Easy Read
Easy Read is a way of making written information easier to understand. Pictures are usually added next to the writing.
guides will help.
Learn more about bullying
Visit our Information and Advice pages to learn more about bullying.
Where to get help if you need it
The Anti-Bullying Alliance
Information and advice about online bullying and SEN/disability.
Mencap's Learning Disability Helpline.
Contact our free helpline for information and advice.
National Bullying Helpline.
Contact their helpline between Monday and Friday.
Your donations help
By giving what you can, you will be helping us to continue to fight for equal
rights
Rights are the things everyone should be allowed to do like have a say, or go to school.
for people with a learning disability, their families and carers.