July 23rd 2024.
Gogglebox star Simon Minty recently opened up about the negative experiences he has faced while travelling, after watching a powerful documentary on the subject. The 56-year-old, who was born with dwarfism, was moved by Channel 4's "Fight to Fly" presented by former Loose Women star Sophie Morgan. The hour-long program shed light on the dehumanizing treatment that disabled customers often face while flying.
As Simon watched the undercover footage of disabled campaigners and friends experiencing mistreatment on flights, he couldn't help but recall his own experiences. He shared how he has often been forced to repeat information, despite filling out forms prior to arrival. Simon, who works as a disability consultant and trainer, also recalled a captain making an announcement blaming him and his scooter for a delay in takeoff, despite having sent all the necessary information beforehand.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Simon continues to travel by air, although he admits it can be undignified and cause him anxiety. He believes that more passengers with reduced mobility should be included in important decision-making meetings, as this is not currently happening enough. Simon's passion for this cause is evident in his company, Minty, which works with organizations to improve the recruitment, retention, and promotion of disabled staff and provide better services to disabled customers.
In addition to his work as a disability consultant, Simon is also a beloved member of the Gogglebox cast, alongside his sister Jane. They joined the show in 2021 and quickly became fan favorites. Meanwhile, Sophie Morgan has launched her own campaign, "Rights on Flights," which aims to impose fines on airlines for failing to accommodate disabled passengers and eventually redesign aircraft to allow them to remain in their wheelchairs during flights. She has even taken her cause to the White House and met with Joe Biden.
Sophie's documentary has received praise for exposing the shortcomings of travel for those with disabilities, with many viewers being moved to tears. It is available to watch on Channel 4. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, you can get in touch with the entertainment team at The Agency by emailing them or visiting their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
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