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Your rights

If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, you may not think of yourself as having a disability. But under the Equality Act 2010, you might be defined as disabled. This means you should have equal access and equality of opportunity without discrimination.

Find out more about your rights and how you’re protected under the law.

The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act protects you against unfair treatment in the workplace, and when you’re out and about, if your hearing loss fits the definition of a disability.

Find out more about the Equality Act


The Humans Right Act

If you believe that your rights have been denied because you’re deaf or have hearing loss, you may be able to bring a case under the Human Rights Act.

Read more about the Humans Right Act


Your rights at work

If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, your employer has a duty to make adjustments so you’re not put at a disadvantage. You could also be eligible for an Access to Work grant to help pay for practical support and specialist equipment.

Find out more about your rights at work


Your rights when accessing health and social care

If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, you have the right to equal access to NHS health and social care services.

Find out more about your rights when accessing health and care


Your rights when using public services

If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments so you are able to access their services. Failure to do so could be unlawful discrimination.

Read more about your rights when using public services

Fight for equality

Knowing our rights empowers us to demand equal treatment – treatment our communities don’t always receive. We work to ensure that access, and lobby for increased rights. Help us today by donating to RNID.
Donate to RNID

Page last updated: 22 September 2023

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