Rights for disabled people living in the UK mean that people with disabilities, both physical and mental can enjoy the same quality of life as able-bodied people. It is extremely important to remember that not all disabilities are physical. Many people suffer in silence with mental health issues, and even a child with autism can look normal to the outsider who will simply pass the child off as a kid with behavioural problems.
Rights for Disabled People in the Workplace
The work place is a place of equality in the UK. Since the Equality Act was passed, disabled people have the same rights to employment as anybody else. Obviously, some people have a disability that means that they cannot work. But for those who can and who are willing, there are job opportunities everywhere you turn your head. Take a trip to your local employment office and look at the job adverts. Many will specifically say that they are interested in employing disabled individuals.
There are many different views on this situation however. Some will say that the tables have turned so far that it is easier to get a job if you are disabled. Employers are rewarded for taking on people with disabilities. Others will say that it is not wise to take on a staff member with learning difficulties as they will not be as capable of carrying out the work tasks set as another person. Whichever way you look at it, and whatever your point of view is, one thing is clear. If you are disabled in the UK then you are in the right place if you are seeking employment.
Rights for Disabled People in Public Places
Once again, since the passing of the Equality Act, disabled people cannot be discriminated against in public places. This is why you will find disabled steps, wheelchair ramps, disabled door openings, and much more when you take a trip into town. Your local bus service will advertise that it has a lowered entrance for wheelchairs. Taxis will be equipped to carry a wheelchair. When you visit a restaurant you will find a disabled toilet and disabled counters that are lower than normal ones.
Rights for Disabled People in Education
In the UK, everyone is entitled to a free education up until the age of 18. We should count ourselves extremely lucky as in many European countries books are not free, there are no disabled facilities, and special transport for disabled students is non-existent. When people are able to join a mainstream school, measures will be put in place to allow them to adapt. These can include wheelchair ramps, large print books, and special medical assistance on site where necessary.
Where children are deemed to be unable to attend mainstream school, there are hundreds of centres and schools around the country that are specially adapted to their needs. Many people do not like to label these centres as “special needs schools”. But they are special. Because the give individuals the chance to learn within their own capabilities and not to be judged by those around. Rights for disabled people in the UK are far better than in many other developed countries. Disabled individuals have the right to learn, integrate in society, and do all the same things that their able-bodied counterparts do.