People with heart disease, diabetes, severe disfigurement, depression, dyslexia or epilepsy may also be described as disabled. Many people are still not aware that their disabilities entitle them to many kinds of assistance in their daily lives. Others become law in 2004. Even with these changes, many disabled people find it hard to take part in day to day life and do not have the same opportunities and choices which non-disabled people often take for granted. Changes in the law bring real changes for disabled people.
Disabled people face massive discrimination - being unfairly treated just because they are disabled.
The purpose of the DRC is to put that right. To promote equal opportunities for disabled people. To encourage good practice in the treatment of disabled people. In carrying out its duties, the DRC is building links with disability and advisory groups, networks and organisations representing business and employers. The DRC is also working with other public and statutory bodies on issues relating to discrimination where a joint approach is appropriate.