New guidance for pubs to help make venues accessible and welcoming to persons with access needs.
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has recently issued (February 2017) accessibility guidance for pubs titled “Pubs are for everyone - Why being accessible is important”. The guidance highlights why accessibility is good for the pub and outlines various steps that can be taken to ensure pubs are as accessible as possible.
Statistics are provided to indicate the economic case for attracting the business of people with accessibility needs and highlights the importance of ensuring that people feel comfortable in the pub environment. The guidance points out that physical access is not the only consideration as accessibility goes beyond gaining entry to a building. The guidance document also outlines various steps that can be taken to improve the accessibility of a premises including:
- Selection of an access champion to take responsibility for developing accessibility within the venue.
- Staff training in disability awareness.
- Consulting with local disability groups to develop an understanding of their needs.
- Carrying out an accessibility audit of the existing premises.
- Consideration of the layout of the establishment including furniture – easy access to the bar and toilets etc.
- Production of an accessibility guide for your website.
- Ensure physical entry is as easy as possible – consult with local authorities regarding improvements to footpaths/dropped kerb’s.
- Purchase of equipment to assist persons with disabilities such as hearing induction loops or large print menus.
- Clear and visible signage.
The benefit of training to ensure that staff are provided with the skills to interaction with customers and the ability to respond to the needs of every customer is outlined and is described as the foundation of any access adjustment. The guidance goes on to describe six key features of an accessible pub including:
- Accessible entrance.
- Hearing induction loop at bar/serving counter.
- Larger print menus.
- Accessible toilet including signage.
- Trained staff.
- Clear layout – access routes.
A number of case studies are included in the guidance document to demonstrate actions taken in different premises to improve accessibility for their customers.
For further information in relation to the BBPA guidance please click here.
If you would like to find out more on how OHAC can assist you to improve the accessibility of your bar/restaurant or, if you would like information on disability awareness training, please do not hesitate to contact one of our team for more information on 01 – 4151285 or e-mail [email protected].
