People’s champion

Tony Benn retired from parliament in 2001, but not everyone’s got the message. Despite living in West London, 150 miles from his former Derbyshire constituency of Chesterfield, Benn receives 80-90 letters each week – many from people wanting his help.
He doesn’t mind too much though. When asked what he misses about being an MP, the immediate reply is: “My constituency. I found that the most satisfying of all the jobs I did. I learned all my politics that way because people came with a whole host of problems, like housing or employment, and you learned what had to be done. So all my ideas came from my experience.”

Obstacle course

Until now, taking evening classes could be difficult for deaf and hard of hearing people. The DDA should make them a doddle.

Anne in Newcastle says, “I’m doing a digital photography course. The building is an old school, with high ceilings and wooden floors. There is no loop and no one has even suggested one and I don’t want to draw attention to myself by asking. If it weren’t for the people on either side of me, I don’t think I could keep up.”
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) makes it unlawful for education providers to discriminate against learners because they are disabled.

Assault on batteries

The European Parliament has proposed that 100% of certain batteries be collected for recycling. Without any explanation, hearing aid batteries have been included in this catch-all category. But the button cells used in hearing aids contain zinc and are not harmful. And just think of the practicalities of collecting every single tiny battery!

Fortunately, there is still plenty of time. The legislation is not due to be finalised until early next year. RNID will be working with the European Parliament to address its concerns and has already responded to the UK government’s consultation paper. One in Seven will keep you in the picture!