{
  "id": 520818,
  "title": "Disabled in a heatwave: 'We're talking about survival'",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/11/disabled-in-a-heatwave-were-talking-about-survival",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-11T00:18:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC News",
    "slug": "bbc-news",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd6923j2wnpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Heatwaves this summer have disrupted travel, caused homes to overheat, and led to school closures for millions. Those with existing health conditions and disabilities are particularly at risk during extreme heat episodes, but these additional challenges are often overlooked in public advice and emergency planning, say campaigners and researchers. Campaigner Doug Paulley explained that while an able-bodied person might find heat uncomfortable, for a disabled person, it can mean a matter of survival. NHS must plan for heatwaves like it does for winter, health secretary Emily Davison stressed, as soaring temperatures force her to prioritize her guide dog Rosie's welfare over her own independence. Davison has canceled journeys to events due to the heat, even missing out on potential earnings. Public transport like buses and even London Taxicard scheme taxis often overheat, making safe travel difficult. The limited availability of accessible taxis has become more challenging, even with the London Taxicard scheme. Journalist Hollye Kirkcaldy, who studies the effects of extreme heat on disabled people, highlighted the inequalities in urban infrastructure, housing, and social networks, which exacerbate the impact of heatwaves on disabled individuals. These circumstances can lead to reduced independence, mental health issues, and financial burdens, as disabled people may be forced to make a trade-off between their health and basic needs like food.",
  "summary": "Disabled campaigners say the official advice for staying safe in a heatwave can put them in more danger.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Science",
        "title": "Disabled in a heatwave: 'We're talking about survival'",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/11/disabled-in-a-heatwave-were-talking-about-survival-521805",
        "published": "2026-08-11T00:18:49.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}