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Michael McEwan argues that going out and staying up late should be a right for everyone

We all love to go out with mates to pubs and clubs as part of everyday life, but if you have a disability you may need support to go out and about. Many people aren’t able to lead an active social life as their support worker may finish early. Research carried out by the Centre For Disability Research found that by 8.30pm on a typical Friday night, 69% were either in bed or ready for bed. Only 7% were actually still out.

This research prompted a need for a campaign called Stay Up Late Scotland; the campaign has been running for many years in England, but there was no representation for Scotland. Created in 2018, Stay Up Late Scotland developed from a broad collection of organisations and people with disability; in the past few years we’ve established a national committee that organises events and activities across the whole country.

We believe that everyone has the right to stay up late and have fun. Our most recent campaign is called #nobedtimes, which aims to raise awareness of more inclusive events to build confidence to stay up late (during lockdown we ‘stayed in’ late with a series of Zoom-hosted gigs). It also gives a much-needed platform for musicians with and without a disability to showcase their work.

For me, going out is a basic human right and no one should tell you when to go home. Going out opens up our circle to new people and is a rite of passage for developing social skills. Staying up late is not just about going out all the time; you can still stay up late in your home in order to have fun.

Alongside the National Autistic Society, Glasgow Film Theatre is running an access film club, designed to engage with people aged 15+ who welcome a relaxed cinema environment. For autistic people, neurodivergent people and those with learning disabilities, a relaxed environment can be the ideal way to enjoy a good film.

On the night, the GFT features an introduction and post-film chat led by an autistic host who can offer relevant information. There are no trailers at the beginning of the film which starts straight after an introduction; lights are turned down, not off, and stair lights remain on. Ultimately, staying up late should be a choice and not just a dream.  Michael McEwan is a freelance journalist and presenter; michaelmcewanmedia.webs.com

In a new series of articles, we turn the focus back on ourselves by asking folk at The List about cultural artefacts that touch their heart and soul (so, there’s a double meaning to the title if you think about it. But don’t think about it too hard or it will lose its impact . . . ). First up, Kevin Fullerton tells us about cultural things which . . .

Made me cry: The ending of every episode of The Simpsons, happy or sad. The earnestness of American sitcoms reduces me to a tear-stained mess.

Made me angry: Season two of Russian Doll, an experience akin to witnessing your favourite child develop a drug habit and marrying a motorcycle enthusiast.

Made me sad: The death of Vangelis.

Made me think: The Ascent Of Man, a 13-part BBC documentary from 1973 in which a passionate scientist, Jacob Bronowski, takes you on a journey from humanity’s first steps to the contemporary era. Beautiful, entertaining and profound.

Made me think twice: I’ve been suspicious of Harry Styles’ reinvention as a rock star since day one, but the catchy Prince ‘homage’ of ‘As It Was’ almost made me like the wee hunk. One listen to Harry’s House might actually push me into fullblown Styler territory.

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