Charity boss among UK’s most influential disabled people

The boss of Disability Direct has been named among the top 100 most influential disabled people in the UK.

Amo Raju, chief executive of the disability group, has been included in the Disability Power 100.

Compiled by The Shaw Trust, Amo’s inclusion is recognition of his lifelong work.

Its judges, chaired by the BBC’s Disability Correspondent Nikki Fox, said: “Amo believes passionately in diverse services delivered by a diverse set of people and has a successful track record of encouraging a culture of opportunity around him.

“As a disabled person from a BAME background, Amo has often faced twice the discrimination and fought against stereotypical societal expectations and then utilised his experience for the benefit and empowerment of his peers.

“With little to no entrepreneurial experience, Amo has created successful businesses, which generate 95% of the income required to run the charity. To date, he has overseen income generation in excess of £25 million.”

Founded in 1993, Disability Direct offers support to disabled and older people in Derby, helping them to live more independent lives.

Amo said: “To be acknowledged by the Shaw Trust, which has long been a beacon-carrier for disabled people, is very humbling.

“I hope that my success can inspire other disabled people to realise that there are opportunities out there for them – they just need to grab them.”

“Meanwhile, I will continue to fight to ensure as many as possible understand their rights and that organisations across the country respond positively towards them.”