Is Wearing Glasses a Disability Under UK Law? The Equality Act 2010 Explained

The Equality Act 2010 and the Definition of Disability: A Legal Perspective In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 aims to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination. However, the definition of disability itself can be complex. Recent discussions have focused on whether conditions that are manageable with medication or assistive devices still qualify as disabilities. One such debate centers around whether wearing glasses constitutes a disability. HR Mindshift, an HR professional, recently addressed this question in a short video. Mindshift explains that the act requires a substantial and long-term impairment of daily life to qualify for protection. "The law interprets that as affecting your day-to-day tasks and capable of lasting longer than 12 months," Mindshift states. The video uses the example of epilepsy. Even if medication prevents seizures, the underlying condition remains a disability under the act. Conversely, the author argues that poor eyesight correctable with glasses is not considered a disability under the act, as it is easily mitigated. This interpretation has sparked debate, with some arguing for a broader definition of disability to include conditions managed with assistive devices. The discussion highlights the ongoing challenges in defining and applying disability legislation.