In 2015 Disabled Access Day began as a day to celebrate good access and to create opportunities for people to try something new. The day was very much about highlighting the fantastic access that already exists in places, experiences such as going on a touch tour, enjoying a relaxed performance, sensory experiences, signed events, level access and of course a warm welcome!
The Day was founded against the backdrop of wanting to make it easy for disabled people to try something new. Often these activities and experiences are hard to arrange or create a sense of anxiety and fear.
This week we are highlighting ways in which to make accessibility easier for people with disabilities.
While access for wheelchair users and disabled people has been a legal requirement for any public buildings constructed since the Building Regulations Acts 2000, there are so many ways in which the needs of approximately 18% of the population are still being ignored.
As a wheelchair user of over 20 years, I have found many times that when booking hotels, the website or administration staff often state that a hotel room is wheelchair accessible, only to find on arrival I cannot get into the bathroom, or sometimes not even the room itself! These physical barriers can be very frustrating, especially when you are looking forward to a holiday or trip away.
Physical barriers are structural obstacles that prevent or block mobility or access. Examples of physical barriers include:
- Steps and curbs that block a person with mobility impairment from entering a building or using a pavement
- Lack of wheelchair suitable parking spaces
- Limited adjustable height examination beds in doctor’s surgeries
- Mammography equipment that requires a woman with mobility impairment to stand
- Absence of a weight scales that accommodates wheelchair users or others who have difficulty weight bearing.
Ideas that would make accessibility easier in places are:
1. Put Ramps on Public Transportation.
2. Add lifts to places like The Tube Stations (where there is often limited access)
3. Make Accessible Toilets More Available.
4. Create Simple Adjustments to Everyday Items.
5. Consider Specific Hearing and Visual Needs.
6. Design for Autism Needs.
7. Encourage Social Inclusion (everything can be made available to everyone, albeit with some adjustments to suit)
PhysioFunction have a new clinic opening at the end of this month, which is fully accessible for wheelchair users or anyone with a disability of any nature.
There will be level access entry, a large car park suitable for all, accessible kitchen on site which will enable clients to learn new baking/cooking skills or brush up on existing skills - Doughability
We will also eventually have a garden for clients to enjoy gardening too, which of course, will be fully accessible.
To learn all about our services follow the link https://www.physiofunction.co.uk/about/the-company
