Disability Discrimination Act

From LoveToKnow Business

The Disability Discrimination Act (The DDA) came into force in October 2004 and is designed to give the disabled community the freedoms most of us take for granted. This means that the needs of the disabled should be addressed at the planning stage rather than being 'tagged' on as an afterthought.

About the Disability Discrimination Act

The Disability Discrimination Act is a civil rights law which makes it unlawful to discriminate against those with disabilities in regards to the provision of goods and services, employment, and education.

This act is important because it protects disabled people and ensures that they do not receive less favorable treatment due to their disability. It also ensures that businesses will take a more active approach to make reasonable adjustments for those with disabilities.

Disability Discrimination Act Compliance

The Disability Discrimination Act and a number of other acts have changed the application and compliance process. For example, if you apply for a commercial planning permission you will need a DDA Access/design statement (From 10/08/06).

From December 2006, government departments have a duty (The Disability Equality Duty) to not only comply with the DDA themselves, but also to use their influence to persuade others to do the same. For instance, if you do business with the local council they may require you as part of the contract to be DDA compliant or you will not be considered.

If you have not already complied with the rules set forth by the Disability Discrimination Act, there are several good reasons to do so now: