The film received widespread press coverage as a result of censorship of its disability themes.
Released on 21 November 2008 (UK) Special People attracted National press with the BBFC classifying the film as a 12A for "moderate sex references, language, violence and disability theme."
The critical consensus states "Low budget British comedy which is sharply written and nicely acted whilst confounding disability misconceptions and prejudices on the way.
"[2] On its release The Guardian hailed Special People as "A milestone in mainstream cinema" for its use of disabled cast.
[3] The Radio Times called it " A triumph of understated, heartfelt humour"[citation needed] and the Daily Mirror "A little gem".