The UK human rights watchdog has accused the UK Government of failing to protect disabled people.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has warned of the consequences of continuing inaction by the Government in addressing problems that disabled people face.
Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, urges the governments in London and Cardiff to address the problems faced by disabled people
‘Many disabled face discrimination’
In a new report submitted to the United Nations (UN), the EHRC warns that many disabled people continue to face discrimination in the UK.
It said the situation continues to worsen, particularly in light of current cost-of-living pressures.
Danger of failure
The EHRC has stressed the danger of a continuing failure to make necessary reforms. These reforms include:
- Addressing problems with the welfare system
- Poor engagement with disabled people and their organisations in many parts of the UK
- Inadequate public services for disabled people, putting them at a higher risk of poverty, abuse and poor health.
Treat disabled with ‘dignity, respect and fairness’
Baroness Kishwer Falkner chairs the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
She said: “Alongside other human rights and equality bodies in Britain and Northern Ireland, we urge the governments in London and Cardiff to address the problems faced by disabled people and take action to address the UN’s recommendations from 2016.
“Disabled people must be treated with dignity, respect and fairness. The recommendations made years ago must be addressed if the lives of disabled people are to improve.”
Long wait for benefits
The report raises concerns that disabled people often face long waiting times between applying for and receiving benefits. It also said they are more likely to use food banks than non-disabled people.
The EHRC said as the cost-of-living crisis deepens, many of the recommendations made in 2016 are even more relevant now.
Government statistics back this up. They show that disabled people are nearly twice as likely to be suffering financial vulnerability as non-disabled adults.
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Published: 23 August 2023
