DISABLED PEOPLE’S RIGHTS DISH Home
The
Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995
After many years of campaigning by people with disabilities and their support organisations, the DDA introduced the right of disabled people not to be treated, without justification, less favourably than others for reasons related to their disability. Issues covered by the act include aspects of employment, access to services, education, transport and housing. From October 2004, part 3 of the act will mean that service providers may have to make other “reasonable adjustments” to their premises so that there are no physical barriers stopping or making it unreasonably difficult for you to use services. This includes going to a restaurant, shopping, using a local library, going to church or visiting your solicitor or doctor.
To claim protection under the DDA, a person must have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial, long term and adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
If you wish to discuss any of the terms, definitions or exclusions of the Act more fully, and whether or not you might be protected by it, contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission (formerly the Disability Rights Commission) – an independent body, established by Act of Parliament to eliminate discrimination against disabled people and promote equality of opportunity:
Equality and Human Rights Disability Helpline
Helpline 0845 604 6610, Textphone 0845 604 6620
Email: info@equalityhumanrights.com or (preferred) use the web enquiry form on their Website: www.equalityhumanrights.com
Note: If you have access to a computer, it is worth checking out their website.
You can also access information and advice from the following sources:
Disability Information
Service Huntingdonshire
Cambs CB23 3UY
Tel: 01480 830833
Fax: 01480 830036
www.dish.org.uk
DISH provides information and advice on a wide range of disability issues. A specialist welfare benefits and money advice service is available for disabled people, carers, older people and parent carers which includes one to one advice, assessment and assistance with completing forms. Representation at disability appeal tribunals in also available.
RADAR (Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation)
12 City Forum,
Tel: 020 7250 3222
Fax: 020 7250 0212
Minicom: 020 7250 4119
Web: www.radar.org.uk Email: radar@radar.org.uk
Disability Law Service
Tel (Advice Line): 020 7791 9800
Tel (Minicom): 020 7791 9801 Fax: 020
7791 9802
Best time to phone (advice line):
Web: www.dls.org.uk E-mail: advice@dls.org.uk
The Disability Law Service is a registered charity which provides free advice and representation to people with disabilities, their families and/or enablers. Advice on the following issues is available from a rota of specialist advisers.
The Law Centres
Federation
Tel: 020 7842 0720
Fax: 020 7842 0721
www.lawcentres.org.uk
E-mail info@lawcentres.org.uk
Law Centres provide a free and independent professional legal service to people who live or work in their catchment areas. To make the most of their limited resources, Law Centres have to prioritise areas of work that they feel are most in demand, and where the needs are greatest. To find out if there is one in your area contact the Law Centres Federation as above.
Community Legal Advice
A new name for Community Legal Services Direct – a free and confidential service paid for by legal aid.
Helpline: 0845 345 4 345 Web: www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk
To request a callback, go here
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