The network arose out of the long-standing relationship between Swindon Dance, REACH Inclusive Arts and Upham Rd Day Centre. These three agencies have individually promoted arts inclusion for young and adult disabled people for many years and collaborated on projects including Moving for Change and the CandoCo Dance Residency promoted by Swindon Dance.

In 2006, the Dance and Disability network was formed; this became the BIG HAT Arts & Disability Network in 2007.