Here is a breakdown of some new UK laws coming into effect during 2022:
British Sign Language Act 2022
This act is to recognise the British Sign Language as a language of England, Wales and Scotland. The Act comes into force on 28 June 2022.
Put simply, BSL is now recognised as a language in England, Wales and Scotland.
The Act also requires the government to promote or facilitate the use of BSL and provide reports on the same which includes the issuing of guidance on the use of BSL.
Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022
This Act is 352 pages in length and was made law on 28 April 2022.
From looking at the contents page, the highlights are:
- Section 2 – the increase in penalty for assault on an emergency worker. The maximum prison sentence has increased from 12 months to 2 years.
- Section 3 – The Court must impose a life sentence for the manslaughter of an emergency worker.
The above comes into law on 28 June 2022.
- Section 196 – in line with the British Sign Language Act, interpreters are able to be provided to jurors (although it is not clear when this part of this Act comes into force)
Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Disabled Persons) Act 2022
This is another act which comes into force on 28 June 2022 and looks to update the Equality Act 2010 and places a duty on taxi or private hire drivers to carry disabled people, wheelchairs and mobility aids and to make sure the passenger is carried safely and in reasonable comfort.
In addition, there is a duty on the driver to take reasonable steps to assist the passenger and not to charge extra for that assistance.
We will have more to follow!
As always, any questions or support with the above please email us at: [email protected] or phone 0151 230 8931.
