Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about Easy Read and Your Rights.
Questions for Self-Advocates
1. What is Easy Read?
Easy Read is a way of writing information so it is:
- Easy to read.
- Easy to understand.
Easy Read helps me understand information.
2. Who is Easy Read for?
Easy Read is for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
It also helps people who find reading difficult or who like clear information.
3. Do I have the right to Easy Read?
Yes. The law says information must be accessible.
For people with IDD, Easy Read helps make this right real.
4. Is Easy Read about children?
No. Easy Read is for adults and young people.
Easy Read is respectful.
5. Can I ask for Easy Read?
Yes. It is your right to ask.
You can say:
6. Who checks Easy Read information?
Easy Read should be checked by People with IDD.
They read it and say what is clear and what is confusing.
Important Message
Easy Read is not extra help.
Easy Read is my right.
When I understand, I can choose.
When I choose, I am included.
Questions for Organisations
1. What is Easy Read?
Easy Read is a method of presenting information in a way that is easy to understand, particularly for persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). It uses simple words, short sentences, and supportive visuals. It does not simplify rights; it improves accessibility.
2. Is Easy Read legally required in India?
Yes. Easy Read is part of communication accessibility mandated under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Specifically, Section 42 requires information to be provided in accessible formats appropriate to different disabilities.
3. Is Easy Read the same as “plain language”?
No.
- Plain Language simplifies wording for the general public.
- Easy Read is designed specifically for cognitive accessibility. It follows stricter rules on layout and requires validation with persons with IDD.
4. Does Easy Read replace full legal documents?
No. Easy Read exists alongside original documents. It helps people understand what the document means for them. Institutions should keep both versions available.
5. Who should develop Easy Read documents?
Easy Read is a professional skill. Documents should be developed by trained staff and must be validated by persons with IDD.
6. How does this help organisations?
Using Easy Read helps you:
- Comply with the RPwD Act (Section 42).
- Reduce misunderstandings and complaints.
- Support informed consent.
- Demonstrate inclusion during audits (NAAC, etc).