In a word, no. The equality act can only be enforced by individuals taking cases, be they on the basis of sex, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, age or disability. There is no government body that goes around to check these things, though planning permission for new buildings often … Continue reading Isn’t it the governments job to make sure businesses comply with the equality act?
I’m not discriminating, I’m treating everyone the same!
The law says that if you don't make reasonable adjustments for disabled people then you are discriminating against them. You can find more information about this at Section 20 of the Equality Act 2010, on the Equality and Human Rights Commission Website, and in the post on where to find the law. Even when thinking … Continue reading I’m not discriminating, I’m treating everyone the same!
How do I find the law on access for disabled people?
You can find the equality act here. The part that deals with 'reasonable adjustments' is section 20, and you can find it here. In addition to the legislation there is a statutory code of practice The Equality and Human Rights Commission has helpfully provided guidance on what the law means for service providers that is … Continue reading How do I find the law on access for disabled people?
Can’t I just serve wheelchair users on the street?
This is unlikely to be considered reasonable if the alternative is to get a ramp and bell that would cost as little as £30 pounds and certainly under £100. The equality and human rights commission code tells service providers that they must provide a service for disabled customers that is as close as reasonably possible … Continue reading Can’t I just serve wheelchair users on the street?
Can’t you just shop in places that are already accessible?
No. It is that kind of thinking that led to segregation and apartheid. Disabled people have the right to be treated as closely as reasonably possible to non disabled customers. This means, at a minimum, they should be able to get into shops, get around the shop, ask questions of the shop keeper and pay … Continue reading Can’t you just shop in places that are already accessible?
Can’t I help someone up a step?
Not without their consent - and if you do you risk injury to yourself, them and anyone else helping. Wheelchairs understandably vary in weight, but including the person in them can come in at over 200kg. That isn't a safe weight to lift.
There are lots of other shops with steps, why should I get a ramp?
Yes, there are. Isn't it outrageous, 22 years after the law on reasonable adjustments to goods and services, that so many places don't have level access?
I’m a one person business, surely the law doesn’t apply to me.
Actually, it does. The equality act applies to all service providers, and that means anyone selling things to the public - be that goods or services.
Towards Access 