This book is a straightforward, practical guide designed for non-legal public body and voluntary sector staff working in areas such as health, housing, education, planning, social services, transport, criminal justice, residential care and equalities. Human Rights Act Toolkit introduces the Human Rights Act to those who may not have prior knowledge of the law and demonstrates how human rights principles play a part in every day decisions regarding policies, procedures and service delivery. The question and answer format of the checklist illustrates these principles with real life situations. You can use the checklist to gain a better understanding of the Act, or you can use it to audit policies and procedures and show compliance.

For those who want to know more about the Act, individual rights and obligations, the second part of the book provides more detail on the Act within the context of the legal system. Lawyers and students might find this section particularly useful.

This second edition of Human Rights Act Toolkit has been updated to reflect the developing debate around the obligations of public bodies as decisions are challenged in the courts. It dispels the prevailing myths about what the Human Rights Act really means and will also help you prepare yourself and your organisation for the impact of the new Equality and Human Rights Commission.

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