The Implications for GPs of the Equality Act (2010)
Session Key Points
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The EA (2010) defines a disabled person as someone who has a 'physical or mental impairment, and the impairment has a
substantial and long term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day to day activities'
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The EA looks at the effect of the impairment on a person's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities NOT someone's
ability to work
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Ultimately, only a tribunal can make the decision as to whether someone meets the EA's definition of a disabled person –
not the GP, occupational health physician or the employer
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GPs can give an opinion as to whether they believe someone is likely or not likely to meet the EA's
definition of a disabled person
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The disability provisions in the EA apply to all employers except for service in the Armed Forces (who follow the spirit of the Act where appropriate)
