Why reform of disability discrimination is needed - real stories
The following case studies demonstrate why reform of disability equality legislation is needed. They illustrate how disabled people, their families and their carers are being affected by gaps in the current disability equality legislation in Northern Ireland.
Kenny's story
Improving protection against discrimination
"I went for a night out in a bar in the centre of Belfast with a large group of my friends. We went into the bar and ordered our drinks. I finished my first drink and nipped out to get cash for the rest of the evening. But when I tried to come back in the security guard refused and told me 'You're not getting in - you're too drunk'".
Read more about Kenny's story>
Philip's story
Pre-employment questions about disability
"I saw a job advertised by another large public sector employer and thought, I am very well qualified for this. So I sent off for the application form. When the form arrived and as I read through it I noticed that it asked a series of questions about health and disability which were unrelated to the criteria for the post."
Read more about Philip's story>
The Morgan family's story
Harassment outside employment
"The worst experience we had was going through airport security. As Thomas walked through the scanner the alarm sounded. The security guard said "He has to be searched". I said "I know he has to be searched but he is autistic, he does not understand what you are trying to tell him.”"
Read more about the Morgan Family's story>
Tell us about your experience
Have you experienced disability discrimination when trying to use services or facilities? Your story could help us to illustrate the type of unfair treatment experienced by disabled people in Northern Ireland and highlight changes that are needed to the law.
If you would like to discuss your experience in confidence contact Cynthia Rice on 028 90 500 673, or email
crice@equalityni.org
We would like to thank all participants for sharing their story with us.