Flick Rea, a pioneering disability rights activist whose campaigning led to the introduction of the UK's first wheelchair-accessible buses, has died aged 72. She passed away on 12 June 2026 after a long illness.
Early life and activism
Born in 1954 in London, Rea contracted polio at age three, leaving her with limited mobility. She became involved in disability activism in the 1970s, joining the Disability Income Group and later the Union of the Physically Impaired Against Segregation.
In 1985, she co-founded the London Disability Transport Group, which successfully lobbied for accessible public transport. Her efforts resulted in a 1990 pilot scheme of wheelchair-accessible buses on London route 159.
Key achievements
Rea's campaigning extended to employment rights. She was instrumental in the passage of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, which made it unlawful to discriminate against disabled people in employment, access to goods and services, and transport.
According to a statement from the charity Scope, "Flick Rea was a force of nature. Her tireless work transformed the lives of millions of disabled people across the UK."
She also served as a consultant to Transport for London, helping design the capital's first fully accessible bus network. By 2005, all London buses were low-floor and wheelchair-accessible.
Personal life and legacy
Rea is survived by her partner, John, and two children. A funeral service will be held on 30 June 2026 at St Mary's Church, Islington.
Her legacy includes the Rea Award, established in 2010, which annually recognises outstanding contributions to disability rights in the UK.
