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Overcoming difficulties
Having a disability shouldn't stop you from getting and doing what you want.
Having a disability shouldn't stop you from getting and doing what you want. It can make life more complicated and you probably have to face prejudice or ignorance from time to time but with organisation and support you'll be able to live as you want.
- Contact an organisation like People with Disabilities Ireland for advice and information.
- If you're at school, college or work ask for disability awareness workshops and information to be made available for everybody.
- Take every opportunity to socialise and get involved in sports and hobbies.
- If your school, college or work organises after hour events (Christmas parties, school tours, cultural trips, training courses, etc) that aren't accessible to you, complain and insist that this is changed.
Work
There are lots of employment supports to help you find and improve at work if you have a disability. FAS also have many courses and support for people with disabilities.
If you're already working and feel that your employer is not fully aware of your rights, then there is also support available for employers to learn more about the facilities they should have.
- Grants are available for employers to adapt equipment and workplaces for people with disabilities.
- Don't let yourself be discriminated against because of a disability. If you think people's attitudes are preventing you from getting where you want at work, then make a formal complaint.
Socialising
Socialising can be difficult for many people with disabilities because of lack of access to the usual activites and hobbies. Lack of access might prevent you from taking part in or using sports and recreational facilities, transport, pubs, night-clubs, restaurants, cinemas and so on.
- Legally all businesses open to the public should provide access for people with disabilities.
- Access sometimes only focuses on wheelchairs. It shouldn't. Visually impaired people and others need to be included. If you feel proper access isn't provided make a formal complaint.
Transport
All new public transport has to be built with proper access facilities. However, older buses and trains will be on the road for a long time so don't expect radical changes too soon.
- If you are receiving a disability payment you are entitled to free travel.
- If you have a disability that makes walking difficult then you might be entitled to a Mobility Allowance.
- If you are receiving a Carer's Allowance you're also entitled to free travel.
Contact the Equality Authority for more information. In Northern Ireland contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
