Equality Act Update
Equality Act update
Over the years, the law on discrimination has played an important role in helping to make Britain a more equal society. However, the legislation in the past has been complex and, despite the progress that has been made, inequality and discrimination persist and progress on some issues has been extremely slow.
The Equality Act 2010 is intended to provide a new cross-cutting legislative framework that will protect the rights of individuals and advance the equality of opportunity for all; to update, simplify and strengthen the previous legislation; and to deliver a simple, modern and accessible framework of discrimination law which protects individuals from unfair treatment and promotes a fair and more equal society. The Act has replaced the Disability Discrimination Act, combining it under one governing umbrella with all equalities issues. The provisions in the Equality Act will come into force at different times to allow time for the people and organisations affected by the new laws to prepare for them but the main initial provision is now in place and will already affect you and your service or rights!
The most important aspect and aim of the Equality Act 2010 is to make the equality law simpler and stronger and there are two different ways in which the act seeks to do this. It will replace 9 major pieces of legislation and 100 other instruments with one single Act and harmonise definitions and exceptions. The Act will provide clear and consistent protection by leveling up protection for people discriminated because they are perceived to have, or are associated with someone who has, a protected characteristic. It will also provide simpler, clearer law and guidance so that employers are clear about what they need to do to comply.
The finalisation of the Equality Bill will ensure that everyone who is counted as having a protected characteristic is protected and receive equal benefits. Inclusion.me backs the Equality Bill in it’s wider context and will continue to provide you with up to date information at www.inclusion.me.uk.
Inclusion is a disability consultation and service provider offering high-quality, cost-effective solutions to employers, businesses and individuals. With over 16 years’ experience specialising in Occupational Therapy, the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) and Vocational Rehabilitation, our solid client base spreads across London and the South-East. For more information on how Inclusion can help you either through an access audit or input from an Occupational Therapist, please visit http://www.inclusion.me.uk.
We will also be updating our site soon to reflect all of these changes regarding the Equality Act and the DDA so please keep coming back for more information and updates soon or follow us on Twitter or Facebook.
Oh and one last thing – an access audit is still the best way to make sure you meet your duties under the Equality Act……a Disability access audit is not tied into the DDA – it’s just all about improving accessibility so why not get in touch for more information…..