FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Disability Rights
Legislation
Disability rights are essentially part of Human Rights. In the UK the definitions of disability and rights are pulled together in the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
This Act is being implemented in stages over a number of years. The Act covers:
- access to goods and services
- buying and renting property
- education
- transport
The Equality & Human Rights Commission
The body facilitating the enforcement of the Act is the Equality & Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The EHRC took over responsibility for dealing with issues relating to race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disabilities, religion & human rights in October 2007.
General help & advice
There are a number of organisations which can advise and support you in ensuring your rights are respected:
- The Disability Helpline can advise on rights & responsibilities under the DDA 08457 622633
- Your local Citizens Advice Bureaux can provide advice on legal issues
- The Community Legal Advice have a helpline & fact sheets on legal issues and a search facility to help you find a solicitor
- Surrey Law Centre offer advice on housing, employment & community care to people living or working in Surrey
- Local disability information services can give you information on your legal rights
+ Additional Information: Rights and obligations
More information on living with a disability in Surrey can be found at www.askenid.org.uk and in the leaflet ‘Information for You’ available from SID (Social Information on Disability), 0800 0439395.