A person is ‘disabled’ if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term difficult effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

Some disabilities are hidden. A person who does not use a wheelchair, walk good enough or has a hearing aid, does not mean that he/she does not have a disability. Invisible disabilities include learning disabilities.

Almost half of working-age people with disabilities in the UK are employed. But this figure should be higher. With the right support, many more could be working.

If you have a disability, some people are worried they may not be employable. But there’s lots of guidance, support and training to help you into employment.

Charity schemes can help raise awareness and challenge the stereotypes about people with disabilities to make sure everyone has a fair chance of working. The charity, Leonard Cheshire, runs a scheme called Change100, which brings together the UK’s top employers and talented disabled students.

Change 100 is its flagship programme of paid summer work placements, professional development and mentoring.

Know your rights

Whatever your physical or learning disability, you have a right to equality, fairness, respect and understanding at your workplace. Employees and jobseekers with disabilities are legally protected against discrimination under the Equality Act 2010. You’re legally entitled to fair treatment when it comes to recruitment, promotion and pay.

Disability Rights

Contact: Plexal, 14 East Bay Lane, Here East, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, London, E20 3BS.

General Enquiry 0330 995 0400

Email

As a disabled person, you have rights to protect you from discrimination. These rights cover most areas including:

employment
education
dealing with the police

The Equality Act 2010 and the United Nations (UN) Convention on disability rights help to enforce, protect and promote your rights.
Contact Leonard Cheshire on 020 3242 0299 or email .

Useful links

Action and Rights of Disabled People in Newham

0207 473 9655

ADHD UK

Disability Rights UK

British Dyslexia Association

Mental health

Courses for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities

Complex Needs and Disabilities Service

0208 475 2301

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