Overview
Everyone providing a service to the public must ensure that disabled people can access their service; and dentists are no exception. For this reason, you should learn about your obligations to disabled people at your dental practice and the practical steps you can take to meet the requirements of the law. In addition to the legalities, sometimes just making a small change will greatly improve a disabled person’s experience at your dental practice.
The Equality Act 2010 provides the rules for disability discrimination. You must not treat a disabled person less favourably for a reason related to their disability (unless you have objective grounds for exemption). Consider the steps you need to take to ensure your service is accessible and assess whether you can implement the necessary changes or need to identify alternative arrangements. This assessment is an ongoing responsibility, because patient needs, practice operations and physical environments can all evolve.
You may also find our advice on equality and diversity in the workplace helpful. It explains the duties that businesses owe to disabled employees, including adjustments that may be necessary to ensure equal access to employment.
On this advice page you will learn about the duty on service providers and what the law requires of those offering dental care to the public. You will understand how the law defines who is disabled and what constitutes a reasonable adjustment. There is also information on how to assess whether changes to the building are needed, and what types of changes may be necessary. You will also find guidance on ensuring that written information is accessible so that disabled patients can fully understand and use your services.
Further information on disability discrimination at work is available from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). It provides guidance on what equality law means for your business and operates the Equality Advisory Support Service helpline on 0808 800 0082.