Baroness Rosalie Wilkins, who passed away on 1 December 2024 at the age of 78, was a distinguished advocate for Disabled people’s rights and a pioneering figure in disability broadcasting. Her steadfast commitment to justice and equality significantly advanced the independent living movement and the broader disability rights landscape in the UK.
Born on 6 May 1946, Rosalie Wilkins became Disabled during her university years in 1966. This experience propelled her into disability activism, beginning with roles at the Disablement Income Group and the Central Council for the Disabled – later known as RADAR, which eventually became part of Disability Rights UK. Her passion for advocacy led her to television, where she presented ITV’s “Link” magazine programme from 1975 to 1988—the UK’s first television programme dedicated solely to disability issues. Link was instrumental in highlighting the challenges faced by Disabled people and in challenging societal attitudes. Notably, its inaugural episode featured Vic Finkelstein discussing the social model of disability, underscoring the programme’s progressive approach.
In 1999, Rosalie Wilkins was appointed a life peer, taking the title Baroness Wilkins of Chesham Bois in the County of Buckinghamshire. In her maiden speech in the House of Lords on 23 November 1999, she championed the independent living movement, highlighting the emergence of centres for independent living across the country since the 1980s. She specifically mentioned Disabled people’s organisations such as the West of England Coalition of Disabled People – which went on to form into WECIL and Bristol Disability Equality Forum, as well as the Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People. Baroness Wilkins called on the government to promote the social inclusion of Disabled young people leaving care, reflecting her dedication to empowering Disabled people.
Throughout her parliamentary career, Baroness Wilkins was a vocal advocate for accessible housing, social care, and equality. She served as vice-chair of both the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Disability and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Deafness, using her platform to influence policy and champion the rights of Disabled people. Her efforts contributed to legislative advancements that have enabled organisations like WECIL to provide high-quality support and advice, challenge barriers to independent living, and deliver services that make a tangible difference in Disabled people’s lives.
Baroness Wilkins’s legacy is evident in the ongoing work of organisations such as WECIL, which continue to uphold the principles she fervently advocated. Her life’s work has been instrumental in shaping a more inclusive society, and her contributions will be remembered and built upon by future generations committed to disability rights and independent living.
