We are pleased to introduce the latest edition of A Practical Guide for Disabled People or Carers.
This guide is designed to provide you with accurate up-to-date information about your rights and the services you can use if you are a disabled person or if you care for a disabled relative or friend.
It should also be helpful to those working in services for disabled people and in voluntary organisations.
The Government is committed to:
- securing comprehensive and enforceable civil rights for disabled people;
- improving services for disabled people, taking into account their needs and wishes;
- improving information about services;
- extending basic rights and opportunities as indicated in its response to the Disability Rights Task Force recommendations.
The guide gives information about services from Government departments and agencies, the NHS and local government, and voluntary organisations. It covers everyday needs such as money and housing as well as opportunities for holidays and leisure. It includes phone numbers, publications and a list of organisations. Other formats and languages may also be available on request.
We hope that you will find it a practical source of useful information.
Jacqui Smith
Minister of State - Health
Maria Eagle
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
Minister for Disabled People
