The government could start fining bus companies whose drivers fail to ensure that wheelchair-users can take advantage of the spaces put aside for them. The proposal is part of a Department for Transport consultation paper on how to make bus travel […]
MPs call for action on ‘underfunded’ social care system
The social care system is “chronically underfunded” and fails to support many disabled people with less severe needs, according to a new report by a committee of MPs. The Commons health committee’s social care report, published today (Friday), says the system […]
Schemes will trial new job support
A new government pilot scheme aims to help people with learning difficulties use part of their council support packages to find paid jobs. Jobs First, being trialled in seven local authorities across England, will test different ways to help people use […]
ELECTION 2010: Speaker pledges to ‘champion disabled people’
The Speaker of the House of Commons has pledged to be the “disabled person’s champion” in the battle to improve access to democracy. John Bercow MP, who has a track record of campaigning on disability issues, was speaking to a joint […]
ELECTION 2010: Watchdog could set up election day hotline for disabled voters
The independent elections watchdog is considering setting up a system to try to prevent disabled people being deprived of their vote on the day of the general election. The Electoral Commission has been in talks with the disability charity Scope about […]
Eagle quells fears over reserved posts
A government minister has finally quelled fears that reserving jobs solely for disabled people might be illegal, following evidence she gave to a committee of MPs in January. Maria Eagle MP, an equalities minister and former minister for disabled people, told […]
Guide Dogs secures ‘shared streets’ court victory
A disability charity has won a high court victory in its battle to stop a development in London’s tourist heartland that puts the safety of blind and partially-sighted people at risk. The development of Exhibition Road by Kensington and Chelsea council […]
Scooter users could be forced to take test and buy insurance
The government could be set to force users of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs to undergo training, take a test and buy insurance, following renewed safety concerns. Transport minister Sadiq Khan has announced a three-month consultation on reforms aimed at modernising […]
Campaigners say government must release work test figures
Frustrated campaigners have called on the government to release crucial statistics about its controversial new work capability test. They spoke out after new research for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) revealed that both benefits staff and disabled people who […]
New improvements to equality bill, but concerns remain
New legal duties to provide accessible information should be a “major step forward” for blind and partially-sighted people and others with “print disabilities”, according to a disabled peer. Lord [Colin] Low was speaking after the government introduced a new amendment to […]