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Equality and Diversity
Disability
Beyond 2004 - A DCMS Framework for Action on Disability sets out what this Department, its Sponsored Bodies and wider sectors can do to contribute to the goal of full equality for disabled people. It covers the period 2003- 06 and is based on 3 main aims:
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Ensuring that disabled people are able to access and participate fully in cultural, heritage, sporting and leisure activities, including employment in these fields;
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Ensuring that disabled people are fully consulted and their needs addressed as policies are developed & implemented.
- Taking positive steps to promote equality for disabled people.
The framework sets out some ways in which DCMS, its sponsored bodies and others can act and join together to support and engage with disabled people.
We have already consulted our Sponsored Bodies, wider sectors, other Government Departments and the Disability Rights Commission in developing it. We want to continue to develop the ideas in this document and would welcome your views and suggestions.
Age
DCMS continues to promote a better quality of life for older people. Progress so far includes:
- All people over the age of 75 are now entitled to free TV licences
- Greater access for those with disabilities and other special needs. The English Tourism Council has published Accessible Britain, addressing the practical travel and leisure needs of people with disabilities
- Elderly people who suffer from a loss of hearing will benefit from the increased target for subtitling on digital terrestrial commercial television, from 50% to 80% of programmes within 10 years of the start of the service
- Local Exercise Action Pilots (LEAPS) are aimed at increasing access to physical activity opportunities for target groups, including older people and those recovering from heart attack or stroke. Ten pilots have been launched across a range of locations
- The People's Network Initiative links all UK public libraries to the Internet. Libraries which qualify as People's Network libraries also qualify to be branded as UK online Centres under the Government's UK online programme. Among the goals of UK online is to increase the use of Information & Communications Technology for leisure and lifelong learning by elderly people
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