Understanding your rights can help you make informed decisions, challenge barriers and access the support you are entitled to.
This guide explains common questions about disability rights, equality law, advocacy and legal protections in the UK.
What rights do disabled people have?
Disabled people have legal protections designed to prevent unfair treatment and remove barriers that prevent equal participation in society.
Rights may cover areas including:
- Employment.
- Education.
- Healthcare.
- Housing.
- Transport.
- Access to goods and services.
- Public services.
The exact protections available depend on the situation.
What is the Equality Act 2010?
The Equality Act 2010 is a UK law that protects people from discrimination because of certain protected characteristics, including disability.
It applies in areas such as:
- Work.
- Education.
- Accessing services.
- Housing.
- Transport.
The Act places responsibilities on organisations to avoid discrimination and, where required, make reasonable adjustments for disabled people.
What counts as a disability under the Equality Act?
Under the Equality Act 2010, a person is considered disabled if they have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities.
Long-term generally means the condition has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months.
Some conditions may automatically meet the definition, while others depend on how they affect the individual.
What is disability discrimination?
Disability discrimination happens when someone is treated unfairly because of their disability or when barriers are created that place disabled people at a disadvantage.
Types of discrimination can include:
- Direct discrimination.
- Indirect discrimination.
- Failure to make reasonable adjustments.
- Harassment.
- Victimisation.
What are reasonable adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are changes made to reduce barriers faced by disabled people.
Examples may include:
- Providing information in accessible formats.
- Adjusting working arrangements.
- Changing policies or procedures.
- Providing equipment or support.
- Making physical changes where appropriate.
What is considered reasonable depends on factors such as cost, practicality and the circumstances involved.
Do organisations have to make reasonable adjustments?
Many organisations have a legal duty to consider reasonable adjustments when a disabled person would otherwise experience a substantial disadvantage.
This can apply to:
- Employers.
- Education providers.
- Service providers.
- Public bodies.
What should I do if I experience disability discrimination?
If you believe you have experienced discrimination, possible steps include:
- Keeping records of what happened.
- Asking the organisation for an explanation.
- Raising a formal complaint.
- Seeking advice from an appropriate organisation.
The right approach depends on the circumstances.
What is advocacy?
Advocacy means having support to help you understand your rights, express your views and make informed decisions.
An advocate may help by:
- Explaining information.
- Helping you communicate your wishes.
- Supporting you during meetings.
- Helping you access services.
What is legal support?
Legal support means getting advice or assistance about legal issues.
This may include:
- Understanding your rights.
- Challenging unfair decisions.
- Making complaints.
- Taking legal action where appropriate.
Not every issue requires legal action, and early advice can often help people understand their options.
Where can disabled people get advice about their rights?
Support may be available from:
- Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS).
- Citizens Advice.
- Disability rights organisations.
- Trade unions (where relevant).
- Solicitors specialising in disability law.
Can disabled people challenge decisions?
Yes. Depending on the situation, people may be able to challenge decisions through:
- Complaints procedures.
- Appeals processes.
- Reviews.
- Independent advice services.
- Legal routes where appropriate.
The process depends on the organisation involved and the type of decision being challenged.
What rights do disabled people have at work?
Disabled employees and job applicants may have protection from discrimination and may be entitled to reasonable adjustments.
Workplace rights can include:
- Fair recruitment processes.
- Protection from unfair treatment.
- Support to remove workplace barriers.
- Accessible working arrangements where reasonable.
What rights do disabled students have?
Disabled students may have protections in education, including:
- Access to reasonable adjustments.
- Accessible learning opportunities.
- Protection from discrimination.
- Support based on individual needs.
What rights do disabled people have when accessing services?
Businesses and organisations providing services must consider accessibility and avoid unlawful discrimination.
This can include:
- Shops.
- Restaurants.
- Transport providers.
- Healthcare services.
- Online services.
Where can I learn more about disability rights?
Official information and support are available from:
- GOV.UK
- Equality and Human Rights Commission
- Citizens Advice
- Equality Advisory and Support Service