The Human Rights Act (HRA) 1998 came into effect on 2 October 2000. The HRA operates differently to single-issue legislation, for example, the Race Relations Act. The HRA supplements other legislation. Its broad values inform all other laws and policies, which must be interpreted to comply with its terms where possible. The Equality Act 2006 makes it clear that human rights cannot be treated as an add-on.
What do human rights cover?
Human rights are about treating people fairly, with dignity and respect. The Human Rights Act 1998 sets out the statutory framework, including obligations on public bodies. There is a fundamental and essential relationship between equality, diversity and human rights. Through implementing a human rights approach, local authorities put the user of public services at the heart of their design and delivery. When services are designed with the user in mind, it reinforces understanding that people are entitled to be treated fairly, with dignity and respect.
Relevant legislation
- Human Rights Act 1998
- Equality Act 2006