As lockdown restrictions return, it’s vital we protect the rights and care of Britain’s disabled

We must devise credible long-term solutions to ensure that the lessons learned about the unequal impact of the virus are incorporated into our ongoing response, says David Isaac

Leicester is one of several areas under lockdown measures (REUTERS)

It seems a long time since March when the country came together to support the government’s response to tackle the coronavirus to protect us all. Although some of us were worried about the draconian powers included in the Coronavirus Act, we were prepared to put our reservations to one side to support the national effort at a time of global crisis. However, it has become clear that the impact of the pandemic has been greatest on some of those least able to bear it, especially disabled people, who have been amongst those most affected by Covid-19.  

It is vital that we devise credible long-term solutions to ensure that the lessons learned about the unequal impact of the virus are incorporated into our ongoing response.

A staggering 60 per cent of people who have died during the pandemic have been disabled. We already know that limited access to full-time work, poor educational support and facilities, inadequate or regular personal care and limited financial support mean that many people with disabilities aren't fully able to participate in society. All too often they are treated as second class citizens. During lockdown, the Coronavirus Act made it possible for local authorities to limit the provision of services to people with disabilities.