Welcome to Volume 3 Issue 5 of the Journal of Disability Research (JDR). Let us start by emphasizing our continuing intention to publish innovative high-impact insightful work, the output strongly connecting with prospects for improving the quality of life of those limited by disability. In the lead up to our first publication, just 20 months ago, we of course looked forward to receiving submissions from a wide variety of sources. We have not been disappointed. The highly multidisciplinary nature of the submissions has clearly given rise to challenges, not least that of seeking out those able and willing to evaluate the research quality. A strong corollary has been considerable enrichment in our pool of referees, with highly encouraging growth in this, leading to a notable reduction in the average time taken in reaching a final decision. In line with the number of high-impact manuscripts that we continue to receive, we have increased issue production, from four in 2023 to the present monthly rate, seeking to accommodate the clear desire for timely publication. Confidence increases as we have continued to observe a steep rise in attraction to the research contained within JDR, presently achieving some 50,000 views, also reflecting widespread global interest in JDR material (Fig. 1). Located within the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR), JDR makes its publications freely available, with publications also being free of publication charges, at least at this time. Not wishing to lose focus, it is of course our further intention to push for greater visibility, impact and recognition, moves that will inevitably lead to greater rates of rejection. The stimuli from this are intended to work to the benefit of all, anticipating not only the inclusion of one’s research in JDR but also that the work influences the world of disability research. JDR progress leads to our paying gratitude to all those who have made this possible. Nonetheless, the clear steer from KSCDR is towards our achieving greater prominence and impact upon those living with disability. We look forward to achieving such aims. Please work with us towards this.
The number of views of JDR articles is seen to be rapidly increasing, just one of the several indicators of global interest in the content.
D. A. Bradley, 29th May 2024
Editor in Chief
Sunway University, Malaysia; University of Surrey, UK; Honorary Professor UCL, UK