Disability Rights Commission
The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) was set up by government in April 2000 to combat discrimination against disabled people. Its role is to
- provide advice and information for disabled people, employers and service providers
- support disabled people in getting their rights under the DDA
- help solve problems informally
- support legal cases to set new precedents
- provide access to an independent conciliation service in the case of disputes
- conduct research and produce publications on good practice for employers and service providers
- organise campaigns, events and conferences.
The DRC's code of practice for post-16 education providers is a valuable source of information and guidance on DDA Part 4. It spells out the duties of institutions and individuals, explains the meaning of ‘reasonable adjustments’ and provides helpful examples.
The DRC has also produced a series of Good Practice guides, on topics such as admissions, learning and teaching, examinations and assessments, and staff development.
In 2006 the DRC will merge with the Equal Opportunities Commission and the Commission for Racial Equality to form a single new body called the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.