Disabled Access

Over the last few decades disabled access in the UK and service provider's attitudes towards it has changed considerably. The responsibilities of service providers have increased a lot, especially with the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act (the DDA).

Since it's latest amendment in October 2004, all service providers must make reasonable adjustments to their premises to allow disabled access to their services. To increase access for a wheelchair user, this could mean adding a ramp or platform lift to overcome a change in floor level, or even something as simple as moving a switch or handle within reach.

All businesses and organisation are covered by the DDA meaning all leisure facilities, pubs, bars and restaurants must be compliant and provide disabled access as the law now requires it.

The DDA governs disabled access in places of education in a slightly different way. For example, as from September 2005, further and higher education institutions have been required to make reasonable adjustments to physical features of premises where these put disabled people at a substantial disadvantage. For further information on disabled access within the DDA and how it affects you, you will find links to websites such as the Equality and Human Rights Commission on our DDA page.

Disabled access is not only inclusive of wheelchair users; it covers anybody with a special need. This could be anything from being visually impaired to hard of hearing, meaning that it is not only physical buildings that need to be made accessible. Companies and services need to consider how accessible all of their services are, including websites and other forms of media and improve disabled access across all these areas.

If you feel that your premises are not up to the level of disabled access that the DDA stipulates, then you could be liable and face legal action. movemanSKG have led the way in making buildings more accessible. We are more than happy to offer you advice on how to improve your disabled access. We have vast experience in installing wheelchair lifts in a range of buildings, including schools, historic buildings and retail outlets to name a few.

We have platform lifts to provide disabled access for many applications, ranging from overcoming a few exterior steps all the way to several floors. Our lifts can be customised to fit in elegantly with their surroundings, using glazed shafts and doors, colours, or even a smear free stainless steel effect.

If you feel like you would like to speak to one of our experienced team about your disabled access needs, then do not hesitate to contact us using the 'Contact Us' page on this website.