Understanding disability discrimination law in the UK, employer obligations, and the duty to make reasonable adjustments.
UK Equality Act 2010: Disability Employment Rights
Overview
The Equality Act 2010 consolidated previous anti-discrimination legislation and provides comprehensive protection for disabled people in the workplace.
Definition of Disability
Under the Act, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that has a:
Substantial effect on daily activitiesLong-term impact (12 months or more)Employer Obligations
1. Duty to Make Reasonable Adjustments
Employers must take positive steps to remove barriers for disabled employees:
Changing policies or practicesRemoving physical barriersProviding auxiliary aids2. Types of Discrimination Prohibited
Direct discrimination: Treating someone less favorably due to disabilityIndirect discrimination: Applying policies that disadvantage disabled peopleHarassment: Unwanted conduct related to disabilityVictimization: Treating someone badly for making a complaint