News

Can the law ever eradicate discrimination?

Andy Doherty
co-chair, National Forum of People with Learning Difficulties

We need strong law. I don't think the government is into it. They say they will stop discrimination going on but it's still happening. We get discriminated against on a regular basis by agencies, taxis, care workers, service organisations. We get treated like children.

Peggy Hatcher
Bromley Advocacy Alliance

One of the problems is that older people often don't realise they are being discriminated against. Laws can't get rid of all discrimination, but they do raise awareness. If age discrimination were against the law it might stop doctors making remarks like 'what do you expect at your age?'

Paul Grey
Mental health service survivor

Anti-racism laws have not helped to shape people's attitudes for the better, because racism is internal. The law makers often do not know the black community, so laws do not reflect their reality. Black people have excelled because they have not relied on laws, but on their own creativity, innovation and perseverance.

Shaun Webster

CHANGE self-advocacy group

The government needs to put its money where its mouth is and make it against the law to discriminate against us. The public do not try hard enough with people with disabilities. We are getting very frustrated and feel that no one listens. Just let us be equal - don't patronise and demean us by giving us low paid or menial jobs.