In general, this means a disability lasting longer than 12 months and excludes addiction to alcohol, tobacco or non-prescribed drugs, although the effects of such an addiction may be classed as a disability. Some personality disorders, such as a tendency to start fires, steal or physically or sexually abuse others, are also exempted.
Severe disfigurement is included as a disability, except when caused by tattoos or body piercing.
The 'Access to Work' government assistance programme offers financial assistance and practical advice to companies and organisations to help people with disabilities. The scheme has already been used by trade unions to assist people with RSI to obtain voice-activated computers. All materials copyright 2000 and onwards, Transport and General Workers' Union, unless otherwise stated.