This publication can be downloaded now free of charge by clicking the related download link to the right.

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) confers a duty on GP practices to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ for people with a disability. This constitutes the removal of policies that make access for disabled people ‘impossible’ or ‘unreasonably difficult’.

We know that for someone with a physical disability, a wheelchair ramp may be required at the practice, or that for a patient whose hearing is impaired, a visual signal might be needed in the waiting room. So what does a ‘reasonable adjustment’ look like for someone with a mental health problem?

This booklet includes information on adjustments which can be made and covers areas such as records, booking appointments, training staff and in the consultation room.

“Even though this booklet is written for GP’s,  I found it really interesting to know what kind of things I should be able to ask my for at my GP’s surgery. They always seem to be so busy, it will feel much better knowing I’ve got the law and Rethink on my side when I feel uncomfortable with things.

I really hope the people that work there see this so they can understand how simple it would be to make things easier for people with mental health problems to get the care they need”.

Rethink member