What Gregg Wallace said, and why it matters

It’s July, which means it’s Disability Pride Month. But in a month dedicated to pride, we’ve had a stark reminder of how far we still have to go. This week, Gregg Wallace has attempted to use his recent autism diagnosis to explain/excuse his behaviour in relation to allegations of inappropriate behaviour and sexual harrassment.

This isn’t just disappointing. It’s dangerous.

Because when high-profile people use autism as a scapegoat for misconduct, it reinforces all the wrong messages. It paints autistic people as socially inept, unable to recognise boundaries - even as predators. And it’s not just inaccurate. It’s actively harmful.

Let’s not forget: Autistic people are far more likely to be the victims of sexual harassment and abuse than the perpetrators.

Today I’m talking about:

• Info: Why Disability Pride Month matters and why we need better public conversations

• Tips: Five real ways to celebrate disability and show up as an ally

• Recommendations: A campaign, some tennis and lots of info!

Info: Why Disability Pride Month matters

Pride is more than a parade or a hashtag. It’s about visibility, and respect. And that means speaking up when public figures weaponise their diagnosis to excuse harm.

Let’s be clear:

• Autism doesn’t cause sexual harassment.

• Being neurodivergent isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card.

• And no one - autistic or not! - should ever have to put up with unsafe behaviour being downplayed or excused because of a label.

When someone uses their diagnosis to avoid accountability, it damages everyone. It makes it harder for autistic people to be open. It stokes fear. It fuels stereotypes that already make life harder - in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

This month, let’s challenge those narratives. Let’s shift the focus back where it belongs: on pride. On equity. On seeing disabled people as whole, complex, and human, not problems to solve or risks to manage.

And let’s not forget: disability is part of the human experience.
Anyone can become disabled at any time. If you reach retirement age, there’s a 45% chance you will be. This is about all of us.

Tips: 5 ways to be a better ally this July (and beyond!)

• Speak up when you hear stereotypes or scapegoating, especially from people in power.

• Celebrate loud and proud: Host events, share stories, start conversations.

• Look at your own spaces: What barriers still exist in your workplace, classroom, or community?

• Boost disabled creators and voices: Share their work, fund their projects, credit their ideas.

• Push for equity, not just access: Pride isn’t just about getting through the door. It’s about belonging once you’re inside.

Recommendations

Scope: Disability Pride Month
Stories, facts, and ideas for getting involved.

Rights on Flights – Sophie Morgan’s campaign
Calling for equal treatment for disabled air travellers.

Wheelchair tennis at Wimbledon
This year’s matches have been powerful, fast-paced, and gripping. Coverage is more prominent compared to other disability sport but imagine if we gave this the same attention as the main draw? Inclusion means equal spotlight.

Closing thought

Disability Pride is hugely important. Whilst there’s a seeming attack on the disabled community everywhere we look right now, it acts as a reminder that we all need to take responsibility for ensuring disabled people are viewed as no less than others.

Speak soon,
Jess

PS Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can help:

• Join the NeuroNavigator® programme and become a certified Neurodiversity Champion. Doors for September start are open now!

• Want me to speak in your organisation? Head here to book a chat and make a plan.

• Book a FREE Discovery call to chat through how I can support your workplace, your school or your family.