Discovering and understanding underserved communities

People with physical disability

A person has a disability if they have an impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

This may include:
  • having poor muscle control, weakness and fatigue
  • difficulty walking
  • difficulty reaching things and doing difficult manipulations

People with severe physical disabilities usually rely on assistive devices such as mobility aids (e.g. crutches, wheelchairs) and manipulation aids (e.g. prosthetics).

Equality Act (2010) London, Stationery Office

Office for Disability Issues (2014) Disability facts and figures. Department for Work and Pensions

The Disability Partnership (2016) Evaluation Report of the 2015-16 Mencap-led Pharmacy Project

Select which of the following statements are true or false?
There are over 11 million people with a limiting long-term illness, impairment or disability.
Correct - It is true that there are over 11 million people with a limiting long-term illness, impairment or disability.
Incorrect - It is true that there are over 11 million people with a limiting long-term illness, impairment or disability.
Around 1 in 3 disabled people experience difficulties related to their impairment in accessing public, commercial and leisure goods and services.
Correct - It is true that around 1 in 3 disabled people experience difficulties related to their impairment in accessing public, commercial and leisure goods and services.
Incorrect - It is false that asround 1 in 3 disabled people experience difficulties related to their impairment in accessing public, commercial and leisure goods and services.
Simple steps to identify and better serve individuals with physical disability

Reflect on your own consultation room - Are there barriers to access? Please bullet point your observations in 200 characters or less in the text box below: