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Free Entertainment Ideas at Home for Disabled Adults in the UK
Written by
Sammi Leaver
Published on
May 22, 2025
Living with a disability shouldn’t mean missing out on fun, culture, or connection. From audiobooks to art tools, there’s a ton of free stuff out there – no subscriptions, no hidden fees, and no pressure to leave your house. This guide rounds up the best totally free ways to stay entertained, inspired, and connected from home – ideal for disabled adults, especially those on a tight budget.
Listen to Free Audiobooks and eBooks (No Kindle Needed)
Books are brilliant, and even better when they don’t cost a thing. Your local UK library gives you access to free audiobooks, eBooks, and even magazines through apps like:
- Libby – adjustable fonts, dark mode, dyslexia-friendly settings
- BorrowBox – packed with fiction, non-fiction, and self-help titles
- Works great for people with mobility issues, chronic pain, fatigue, or sight loss
You can check out our article to find a comprehensive list of free audiobook options here.
Watch Movies & Documentaries – Free with Your Library Card
Not everyone knows this one: some UK libraries give free access to Kanopy – a streaming platform full of world cinema, indie films, and documentaries.
- No ads, no subscription
- Works on smart TVs, tablets, and phones
- Great alternative to Netflix when the budget’s tight
Top tip: Check your local council library’s site or ask if Kanopy is included.
Fill Your Day with Free Music, Radio and Podcasts
Need background sound or something to lift your mood? Try these:
- BBC Sounds – dramas, interviews, comedy, and playlists
- Spotify Free – music, podcasts, audiobooks (with ads)
- Apple or Google Podcasts – explore everything from mental health chats to history, storytelling, and true crime
Perfect for energy-limited days, or just zoning out with your headphones.
Try a Free Online Course or Hobby – At Your Own Pace
Learning something new isn’t just good for the brain – it can be genuinely joyful.
- OpenLearn – 1,000+ free courses from the Open University
- FutureLearn – short courses from top UK universities
- Watch out for free trials on Skillshare and Domestika for art, writing, and design classes
No pressure, no deadlines – just dip in when you feel up to it.
Visit World-Class Museums… Without Leaving Your Sofa
Exploring art and history is possible from bed, sofa, or beanbag:
- Google Arts & Culture – explore the British Museum, Van Gogh Museum, and more
- Free digital exhibits from the Tate, V&A, and Natural History Museum
- Many include audio descriptions and BSL options for accessibility
Travel the world in your pyjamas.
Free Games & Puzzles to Boost Your Brain
If you love word games, logic puzzles, or just want a little mental spark:
- BBC Accessible Games – designed for easy use with screen readers or alternative access tools
- Puzzle Prime or Arkadium – jigsaws, word searches, sudoku
- Virtual Village Hall – fun sessions like quizzes, crafts, and memory games
No sign-ups needed. Just play.
Join Virtual Social Groups (No Pressure to Be “On”)
Feeling isolated? There are welcoming, low-pressure online spaces out there:
- Re-engage – free activity groups for disabled and older adults
- Meetup.com – online book clubs, crafts, games, and hobby groups
- Disability Horizons and Scope – community events and support sessions
You can join in fully or just sit back and listen – no awkward intros needed.
Watch Free TV With Subtitles, AD & BSL Support
Got a TV licence? You already have free access to:
These services offer audio descriptions, subtitles, and BSL content – plus accessible menus and navigation for screen readers.
Relax With Virtual Nature and Soundscapes
On tough days, nature can be the ultimate free therapy:
- Explore.org – live streams from oceans, forests, and animal rescues
- National Trust Soundscapes – birdsong, rivers, trees
- Calm Radio (Free) – soothing sounds, gentle music, and guided breathing
Perfect for pain management, anxiety, or just winding down before bed.
Get Creative With Free Digital Art Tools
No art degree required – just a bit of curiosity:
- Krita – powerful free painting software
- Canva Free – make posters, cards, collages or even memes
- Poetizer – share your poetry or find a new favourite
Creativity is for everyone – including you.
Fun Shouldn’t Cost a Thing
Entertainment, connection, learning and calm – all of it should be accessible. You don’t need big money, loads of energy, or perfect health to enjoy the world from home. These free tools and resources are here for you – all you need to do is start exploring.
Sammi is autistic, has ADHD, and lives with POTS. She’s passionate about disability advocacy, accessibility, and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood. With a sharp sense of humour and a deep love for community, she speaks openly about the realities of being neurodivergent across all of her personal platforms, always aiming to challenge stigma, spark conversations, and remind others they’re not alone.
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