Disabled people have been protected by legislation, such as the Disability Discrimination Act, and Human Rights Act for a number of years.
The Disability Equality Duty came into force on 4 December 2006. The Duty places a practical emphasis on public authorities to tackle disability discrimination by introducing policies that actively promote opportunities for disabled people and prevent discrimination taking place. It means that public authorities are to be proactive in ensuring that disabled people are treated fairly and equally. In practical terms, public authorities need to include equality for disabled people into the culture of their organisation in realistic and demonstrated ways. It means including disabled people and incorporating disability equality into everything public organisations do from the start of their strategic and service planning processes.
Relevant legislation
- Disability Discrimination Act 1995
- Human Rights Act 1998
- Employment Act 2002
- Disability Discrimination Act 2005
What does disability cover?
Disability affects all people, of all ages and from all groups. A disability is often considered as something that can be seen - a person is not considered disabled unless s/he is in a wheelchair, or has a hearing aid - but disability can often be invisible. There is also an assumption that people with the same disability have the same needs, support requirements and expectations. Consequently, the needs of disabled people are often not understood, addressed or supported effectively and appropriately.