The Law

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)

There are over 10 million people with rights under the DDA in Britain today. Some are visibly disabled, such as someone with a visual impairment, while some have an invisible disability, such as someone with a learning difficulty.

Under the DDA, all disabled people are regarded equally. People with ‘invisible disabilities’ have exactly the same rights as other more visibly disabled people.

In December 2006, The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) underwent changes in Parliament. The Act provides information and guidance on what constitutes disability and who is entitled to protection under it. Disability covers people of all ages with heart disease, diabetes, severe disfigurement, depression, schizophrenia, dyslexia, epilepsy, Downs syndrome and many other types of impairment.

Many disabled people still don’t know that they are entitled to rights and assistance in their daily lives. However, under the DDA, practical solutions can be found to problems that disabled people may encounter – and this extends to public transport.

Andrew Haines, Chairman of the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC)’s Disability Group, discusses the implications of the new legislation for disabled people using trains:

“Train Operators are keen that more disabled people use trains. The new duties under the DDA create a solid framework there as a safeguard for disabled passengers. At the same time train companies are keen to improve the quality of services offered to all passengers. Disabled people are valuable customers and we want them to make the most of rail travel.”