Memorandum from the Terrence Higgins Trust
(DDB 34)
I am writing to inform you of Terrence Higgins
Trust's views on the Bill before the Joint Committee on the draft
Discrimination Bill. THT is delighted to welcome the draft Bill;
in particular, we welcome the extension of the definition of disability
to cover people with HIV from the point of diagnosis. Discrimination
against people with HIV is rife in the UK. In a recent survey,
78% of HIV positive people reported having experienced HIV related
prejudice or discrimination at some point since their diagnosis.
THT believes that the relatively small change will make a big
difference to people living with HIV and provide them with the
protection they require.
Further, THT believes it is important that protection
is afforded to people who are perceived to be disabled or who
suffer as a result of their association with a disabled person.
THI is aware of instances where, for example, a person's sexuality
is used to assume HIV risk or even HIV status. We believe this
random linking of perceptions to be unfair and discriminatory.
We therefore support the calls of the Disability Rights Commission
and Carers UK for the Bill to extend protection against any discrimination
"on the grounds" of disability. Not only will this bring
the UK in line with the European Framework Directive, but it will
strengthen the protection for all people with HIV and those communities
most at risk.
If you have any questions about the above points,
or would like any further information, please do not hesitate
to contact me.
Nick Partridge OBE
Chief Executive
February 2004
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