In August 2025, the government appointed Zara Todd, a recognised disability rights expert, to lead a new Independent Disability Advisory Panel. GOV.UK On the face of it, this seems promising: disabled voices in policy-making is long overdue. But we must ask: will this panel be given power or just symbolism?

Historically, “advisory” groups have been used to legitimize decisions already made behind closed doors — a veneer of consultation that rarely changes outcomes. If the Todd panel cannot veto harmful proposals or enforce accountability, it risks being another cog in the machinery of illusion.

We should insist that the panel have transparency, budget, and binding influence — not just access to sit at the table. Otherwise, it becomes yet another mechanism for the government to pretend it listens while continuing the same long offense against the sick and disabled.

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