EHRC response to ONS data on coronavirus and the social impacts on disabled people
Rebecca Hilsenrath, Chief Executive
| Equality and Human Rights Commission
1 min read
Equality and Human Rights Commission Chief Executive, Rebecca Hilsenrath, responds to the ONS data on the impact of coronavirus on disabled people.
The equality implications of the coronavirus will stretch far and wide, affecting people with different protected characteristics in different ways.
That’s why today’s research from ONS is concerning but sadly, unsurprising.
It is vital that throughout this crisis the impact on protected groups is properly understood, monitored and mitigated. These findings show that the impact of self-isolation for disabled people is increased loneliness, worry, and decreased general well-being.
This week we raised concerns with the British Retail Consortium about the potential impact on disabled people of reducing access to food and essentials. We will continue to use our unique mandate to protect the rights of disabled people in Britain.
It is extremely heartening to know that all communities across the country are actively helping the people around them who need it most.
This must be a moment when we as a country begin to put recent differences behind us and show the world our capacity for compassion and solidarity.
