Published:2008-02-29
Publisher:Legal Action Group
Series:human rights
Page count:268pp
'The presentation of the text is first class - in LAG's house style which makes everything accessible ... There is no better way of explaining the law and legal concepts to the layman than by the use of practical examples in real cases; several of these are used to illustrate each point which is set out succintly and with admirable clarify.' Solicitors Journal
'a very useful reference tool'. Health Service Journal
'innovative and useful for non-lawyers and lawyers'. Independent Lawyer
'this is a rarity - a readable law book'. LAPG
'an excellent and very readable summary of the principles of [the Human Rights Act]'. New Law Journal
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.
Features
•designed for managers and front-line staff who have no legal knowledge
•introduces basic human rights principles
•helps to protect against legal challenges
•simple checklist format
•separate checklists for decision-making and discrimination
•worked-through examples
•can be used to audit existing policies
•can be used to draft new policies and procedures
•can be used to inform a service inspection
•includes the full text of the Human Rights Act