Accessibility – It is much more than just building access
When most people think about accessibility they focus on getting into a building and using the reception, lift, toilet and facilities. Accessibility is much more than that and a wide range of areas need to be considered including:
- Public transport: One of the biggest barriers faced by people with disabilities is the lack of public transport to get to the buildings themselves. Barriers include lack of public announcements during the journey; accessibility of ticketing machines; lack of well designed signage in stations and poor customer services.
- Information provision: People like to plan their journey in advance. Therefore having accessible, usable and easy to understand pre-visit information is key. Also, it is important to have accessible information available within the building. Examples include forms and leaflets; Promotional materials; Assistive Technology; Information, Communication and Technology; Signage and accessible interpretative information.
- Customer services: A regular complaint made by people with disabilities is the lack of staff awareness when meeting and greeting customers with disabilities.Therefore it is important to provide satisfactory customer services and ensure all staff are welcoming.
- Recruitment/Workplaces: Accessibility for staff must also be considered. Examples include reasonable accommodations for staff members with disabilities; Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace; Staff awareness and recruitment.
If you would like further information on accessibility, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01-4151285 or [email protected].
