Social model of disability
The London Plan, published by the Mayor of London in March 2016, in relation to the social model of disability is suggests that: 'The poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion experienced by many disabled people is not the inevitable result of their impairments or medical conditions, but rather stems from attitudinal and environmental barriers. This is known as ‘the social model of disability’, and provides a basis for the successful implementation of the duty to promote disability equality.’
Shaping neighbourhoods, Accessible London: achieving an inclusive environment, Supplementary planning guidance, published by the Mayor of London in October 2014, states:
‘The government's Office of Disability Issues explains that the social model of disability considers that disability is created by barriers in society, not by an individual’s medical condition. These barriers generally fall into three categories:
- the environment — including inaccessible buildings and services;
- people’s attitudes — stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice;
- organisations — inflexible policies, practices and procedures.’
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