The Disability Discrimination Act

What is it about and how does it affect Netball Clubs ?

Introduction

The following information has been put together for netball Clubs to provide some background on the Disability Discrimination Act, some ideas about how your club can prepare for the Act and contact details for further information.

What is the Disability Discrimination Act?

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 introduced new laws aimed at ending discrimination against disabled people.
Clubs should be aware of their responsibility to meet the requirements.
In brief:

• Since 2 December 1996 it has been unlawful for sports clubs to treat disabled people less favourably for a reason related to their disability;
• Since 1 October 1999 sports clubs have had to make 'reasonable adjustments' for disabled people, such as providing extra help or making changes to the way they provide services; and 
• From 1 October 2004 sports clubs may have to make other 'reasonable adjustments' in relation to the physical features of their premises to overcome physical barriers to access.
  There is much debate over what is meant by 'reasonable adjustments', and at present there is no definitive guidance; this will develop over time as case law begins to influence and define 'reasonable'.
  What can netball Clubs do to encourage people with disabilities to be included?
  The DDA is not just about facilities, it is about changing the attitude towards, and opportunities for, disabled people.
  England Netball has been working towards improving the opportunities for disabled people for a number of years and has produced modified rules that can be used with different groups. Our current focus is on working with players with learning disability.  
  There are a number of measures that clubs can take to ensure that they are working in the spirit of the Act, these include:
  Provide a welcoming environment: Having a positive and welcoming attitude is probably the most effective way to encourage disabled people into your club, think about what your club CAN do, rather than the barriers.  For example:
• Think about your signage, is it clear and well directed?
• Does your club welcome all members of the community?
• Is this reflected in information that is sent out to potential members?

Training:
Offer disability awareness training to your coach, officials or a committee member to ensure you are as welcoming to disabled people as possible.
Be aware of the DDA and its implications: see details below about where to get further information.

Talk to disabled people:
Consult with groups and individuals about their needs and requirements - don't make assumptions.
Find out about local disability sports clubs or schools in your area and share your netball experience, knowledge and enthusiasm!
Contact your Local Authority Sports Development Officer or County Sports Partnership for details of disability sport contacts and organisations.

Adapt the rules:
Many disabled people could enjoy a netball experience with a few slight adaptations to the standard rules. 

Policy:
Ensure your club's constitution reflects an inclusive approach, an equity statement will demonstrate your club's commitment to achieving this. Clubs involved in the CAPS programme will have access to a standard equity statement that can be adapted to meet your club's needs.
Does your club have an open policy on membership?

Access to facilities: Talk to your facility provider i.e. school or local authority about the provisions that they have in place to meet the requirements of the Act.  This may include car parking facilities, toilet and changing facilities.

Main principles of the Act:

• Don't treat people less favourably than anyone else.
• Take reasonable steps to make all aspects of your club accessible.

Training Opportunities sports coach UK - workshops: 

•  How to Coach Disabled People in Sport
• Coaching Disabled Performers
• Equity in Your Coaching
  Running Sport - 3 hour workshop:
• A Club for All - Welcoming all members of the community

In summary

It's good practice to include all members of the community in your club and an opportunity to introduce new members, potential administrators, officials and coaches.  Inclusion demonstrates a positive public image to external partners and funding bodies and ensures that your club complies with the law. 

Where to get further information

Sport England:
The organisation that provides a strategic lead for sport in England.
www.sportengland.org

Tel: 0207 273 1500
This website includes a 'Frequently asked questions' factsheet on the DDA.

English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS): The umbrella organisation which co-ordinates and develops sport for disabled people in England.
www.efds.co.uk

Tel: 0161 247 5294  Minicom: 0161 247 5644
Email: federation@efds.co.uk

Disability Rights Commission: Independent body established to stop discrimination and promote equality of opportunity for disabled people.
www.drc-gb.org
Tel:  08457 622 633  Text phone: 08457 622 644

sports coach UK (scUK): The lead organisation for coach development and education.
www.sportscoachuk.org
Tel: 01132 744802

Running Sport:
Sport England's club development programme, which offers a series of workshops aimed at club volunteers.
Tel: 0845 758 5136

England Netball: Helen Murdock, Equity and Welfare Manager
Tel: 01462 442344  Mob: 07739 894876
Email: helenm@englandnetball.co.uk