Once people see the film it will open doors

Nick Tennant, Disability Rights Commission

Prime Minister Tony Blair has pledged his support but the DRC has not yet persuaded any terrestrial television channel to broadcast a 10-minute film accompanying the campaign.

"Once people see the film, it will open doors," said DRC spokesman Nick Tennant.

"We would like to see it on any one of the main terrestrial channels and we are in discussion with the BBC and Channel Four at the moment."

Tables are turned

The film, "Talk", is the centrepiece of the "Actions Speak Louder Than Words" campaign.

It features former Casualty actor Jonathan Kerrigan, who finds himself in a world where the tables are turned on able-bodied people.

Jonathan Kerrigan: Stars in film campaign

In "Talk", he takes on the role of a businessman trapped in a world where everyone else is disabled and he is discriminated against because he does not have a disability.

The DRC has played down its failure to find a broadcasting outlet for the film, saying that negotiations are continuing.

It hopes "Talk" will be broadcast on prime time television in the New Year.

It also hopes cinemas will agree to screenings.

We all have a part to play in enabling disabled people to participate fully in society

Bert Massie, Chairman, Disability Rights Commission

DRC chairman Bert Massie said: "We are delighted that the prime minister is spearheading our call to all sections of society to make tangible, meaningful commitments that will improve disabled people's quality of life."

He described Mr Blair's support as "a clear lead to everybody that we all have a part to play in enabling disabled people to participate fully in society".

Organisations backing the campaign include Microsoft, Lloyds TSB and the Trades Union Congress.