The Disability Discrimination Act

Just as with other linguistic minorities, deaf people have difficulty accessing information in the majority language. Recent legislation has taken steps to protect their rights to access.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 and specifically Part III 'Access to Goods and Services', requires that all organisations make reasonable adjustments to the way they deliver their services so they are accessible to all members of our society.

Stating that service providers have a duty to 'take such steps as it is reasonable', to provide where necessary 'an auxiliary aid'.
Under the terms of the Disability Discrimination Act, the term 'service providers' relates to most companies or organisations that offer goods, facilities or services in the UK to the public. It does not matter whether the services are free or paid for.This includes any company, partnership, sole trader or similar in the following categories:

• Banks, building societies & insurance companies
• Health services, including hospitals & GPs
• Courts, solicitors, & advice & information services
• Local authority services
• Cinemas & theatres
• Railway & bus stations and travel agents
• Shops, hotels & restaurants
• Telecommunications & broadcasting services
• Sports centres, football grounds & parks
• Private education & voluntary sector providers
• Non-educational activities in schools, colleges & universities, such as parent's evenings, fundraising activities & students' unions.

Course providers such as local education authorities, colleges and universities are also covered by the DDA. Deaf and hard of hearing students in Further Education - your rights under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and Deaf and hard of hearing students in Higher Education - your rights under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

A deaf customer who believes they have been discriminated against may take action in the County Court. If successful in their claim, the court then has the power to award damages against you, including damages for 'hurt feelings' and, in some circumstances, grant an injunction to order you to make appropriate adjustments to provide them access.