Disability

Disability rights

The Disability Discrimination Act has increased the rights of people with disabilities regarding access to goods, services, education and employment.

From October 2004 these rights were extended so that service providers have to make reasonable adjustments to their premises in order that there are no physical barriers making it unreasonably difficult for people with disabilities to access their services.

Citizens Advice can help with challenging discrimination at work, when accessing goods and services, when buying and renting property, with education and access to public transport. See the link under 'External Links' on this page for more information.

Since 5 December 2005 further rights have extended disability discrimination to more people, including those with long term health conditions.

People diagnosed with cancer, HIV and multiple sclerosis (MS), but not yet showing signs of their illness, will be protected for the first time. This means that employers and organisations providing services to the public will not be able to discriminate against people who have been diagnosed with these conditions.

Other new duties make it unlawful for local authorities and private clubs to treat their disabled members less favourably. From December 2006, a new public sector duty will require all public bodies in Britain to integrate disabled people in their policy-making from the outset as well as to promote equality of opportunity for disabled people. This is similar to existing duties under race legislation.

Details on new legislation are available from the Disability Rights Commission website. The Commission can offer you advice about your rights and the best way of taking matters forward. See the link under 'External Links' on this page for more information or the link below.

Disability awareness training helps people understand both the practical issues associated with disability and the more subtle area of people's attitudes, which can affect another person's life.

Advocacy services can help you if you have difficulty in putting your own views forward.

Employers who use the “Positive About Disabled People" Two Tick symbol as part of their recruitment are committed to promoting equal opportunities in both recruiting and retaining disabled members of staff. The local Jobcentre will be able to provide a list of local disability symbol users. Hertfordshire County Council is a Two Tick symbol user.