Introduction to Disability Awareness

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
K/618/3777
Credits:
2
Guided learning hours:
18 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of Evidence

Aim

This unit introduces the learner to the social model of disability and compares it to the medical model. It also considers how the social model can be put into practice.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Know the difference between the terms disability and impairment.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Identify what disability means.

  • 1.2

    Outline conditions which cause disability.

    1.2: Conditions, for example:

    • arthritis and other musculoskeletal problems
    • back pain
    • heart disease and stroke
    • cancer
    • depression
    • diabetes
    • obesity
    • learning; reduced intellectual ability
    • multiple sclerosis
    • eyesight issues, for example, blind or partially sighted
    • hearing issues, for example, deaf

  • 1.3

    Identify what impairment means.

2

Know how key legislation protects people who have a disability.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    List current disability related legislation.

  • 2.2

    Outline the rights of disabled people in line with current disability related legislation.

    2.2: Rights of disabled people, for example:

    • the right to be protected from discrimination
    • the right to employment, education
    • reasonable adjustments in the workplace
    • reasonable adjustments in place of study
3

Understand attitudes and barriers faced by people who have a disability.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Outline the types of difficulties faced by disabled people, including: 

    a) social and financial issues

    b) negative attitudes

    c) physical barriers

    d) institutional barriers.

    3.1: Types of difficulties, for example:

    • may not be able to get out without assistance
    • accessibility to facilities
    • verbal and physical abuse
    • individuals not willing to help
    • accessing buildings
    • accessing courses
4

Understand the social model of disability and how it is put into practice.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Identify what is meant by the ‘social model’ of disability.

  • 4.2

    Describe key differences between the ‘medical model’ of disability and the ‘social model’ of disability.

  • 4.3

    Outline the reasons why the social model focuses on ‘disability’ and not ‘impairment’.

  • 4.4

    Outline the type of ‘language’ used when applying the social model.

    4.4: Applying the social model, for example:

    • adapting; consider environment changes
    • providing support
    • accessibility
    • independence
    • providing aids or adjustments
  • 4.5

    Explain how the social model of disability can be used in practice.

    4.5: How the social model of disability can be used in practice, for example:

    • getting the person involved in decision-making and problem-solving
    • asking their opinions
    • providing appropriate support, equipment and aids