Born in Dundee, Margaret Blackwood was the daughter of Beatrice Marie Orr and George Blackwood, an actuary. In 1965, her family moved to Edinburgh, where she became inspired by the work of other women activists, including Megan du Boisson and Berit Moore, who were campaigning for a National Disability Income. 

Blackwood’s drive for social change led her to found the Disablement Income Group (DIG) in Scotland in 1966. The DIG advocated for the financial rights of disabled people across the UK.

As a passionate campaigner, Blackwood played a crucial role in securing the 1970 Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act, which introduced important financial benefits such as mobility and attendance allowances for disabled individuals.

She spearheaded the March on Wheels protest along Princes Street in Edinburgh and addressed a rally in Trafalgar Square, London—publicly demanding equality and recognition for disabled people’s rights.

On her tireless campaign for the rights of disabled people, she noted: “The time was ripe. Hundreds of people were getting in touch with me. I was passionate. The disabled had suffered from neglect due to ignorance. If we shouted loudly enough the public would hear – and by and large, the public is a sympathetic and resourceful lot.”

In 1972, Blackwood extended her advocacy to housing, founding the Margaret Blackwood Housing Association. She recognised the lack of suitable housing for disabled people and sought to create spaces where individuals could live with independence. 

Sharing the frustration that motivated her activism in an early newsletter, Open Door, in 1991, Margaret said: “There were no suitable houses… Many of the Directors of Social Work responded by including a few ground-floor houses in their plans but this wasn’t nearly enough to meet the needs.”

In 1976, the first Blackwood home opened in Dundee, marking the beginning of a transformation in accessible housing in Scotland. Today, the organisation that still bears her name provides affordable, beautiful and connected homes.

Julie McDowell, chair of Blackwood Homes said “On this International Women’s Day, we’re delighted to recognise and celebrate the achievements of Dr Margaret Blackwood, her passion and commitment to the cause of equal rights for all in the housing space. 

“Today, Blackwood Homes and Care supports thousands of individuals across Scotland, helping them live their life to the full. Her dedication continues to inspire us today as we strive to create inclusive, accessible communities for all.”
 
Margaret Blackwood was not only a trailblazer in the housing sector but also a woman who defied societal limitations to create opportunities for others. In recognition of her tireless efforts, she was awarded an MBE in 1970 and later received an honorary doctorate from Aberdeen University. 

Margaret passed away on January 28, 1994, but her legacy continues to resonate today. On International Women’s Day, Blackwood’s life and achievements are a reminder of the profound impact that one woman’s dedication, vision, and leadership can have. Her work continues to inspire action, reminding us that meaningful change starts with bold leadership and unwavering dedication.