§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what measures he is taking to ensure that all public buildings and facilities comply with the standards set out in the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. [89209]
§ Ms HodgeThe Disability Discrimination Act 1995 does not set specific standards for buildings or facilities. Rather, it requires employers and service providers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people.
416WThe new duties on those who provide goods, facilities and services to the public to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people are coming into force on 1 October, although service providers will not be required to make physical adjustments to their premises until 2004. The October phase of implementation is being supported by a revised Code of Practice which was issued on 29 June. The Code gives guidance to service providers about their responsibilities under the Act and how to adopt good practice. A similar Code of Practice in respect of employers' duties under the Act was issued in 1996. In addition, other information for service providers and employers can be obtained from the DDA Helpline and more will become available as 1 October approaches.
Whether a service provider or employer has fulfilled their duties under the DDA can only be determined when an individual pursues a claim through an Employment Tribunal or the Courts. However, we are currently taking legislation through Parliament to establish the Disability Rights Commission which will support disabled people in securing their rights under the Act and seek to ensure that employers and service providers who discriminate change their practices and procedures. The Commission will also work to promote good practice among service providers and employers, and be a central source of information and advice about the DDA.
A campaign to raise awareness about the DDA, and disability in general, with employers and service providers, as well as the general public is currently underway. From 1 July, national newspaper advertisements have been alerting service providers to the new rights in respect of access to goods, facilities and services. Further newspaper and radio advertisements are planned for the autumn. The campaign will also be working with intermediaries such as the CBI, British Chambers of Commerce and the Local Government Association to ensure that all service providers, in both the public and private sector, are aware of the new rights and duties.