S/P/48. Compare and Contrast the Medical and Social models of disability, and consider the implications of the two approaches for disability policy

This paper compares and contrasts the Medical and Social models of disability. It highlights analogous themes, before discussing three main differences -Defining the nature of disability; Rights v Needs; Solutions. The paper also focuses on the implications of the two models, through employing past and contemporary disability policy e.g. Disabled Persons (Employment Act) 1944, National Assistance Act 1948, Chronically Sick and Disabled Person Act 1970), Disabled Persons Act 1981, Disability Working Act 1991, Disability Discrimination Act 1995, Special Education Needs and Disability Act 2001.