Recent reports have revealed that UK businesses are losing millions of pounds each month due to lack of accessibility for disabled people. Research indicates that, although approximately 16 million people throughout the UK have a disability, 90% of disabled people face significant barriers to accessibility when trying to access goods and services.
Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses and service providers have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that disabled customers are not placed at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled people, when accessing their services
What might reasonable adjustments look like?
- Providing staff with disability awareness and British Sign Language training to improve communication with disabled customers.
- Offering quiet hours or low-sensory environments to support neuro divergent individuals
- Ensuring clear and accessible signage, wider aisles and step-free access where possible.
- Using inclusive packaging and product design that can be easily opened or understood by customers with physical or sensory impairments
- Offering alternative ways to access services, such as online or telephone ordering, where in-person accessibility is limited.
These adjustments can often be low-cost, but can make a significant difference in ensuring equality and inclusion.
How can Stephensons help?
At Stephensons, we advise both individuals and organisations on their rights and obligations under the Equality Act 2010.
If you believe that you have been subject to discrimination due to barriers in accessing goods or services, we have a number of specialists who could assist you with pursuing a claim for damages and injunctive relief.
Alternatively, if you are a business or service provider, and would like to seek guidance as to what adjustments you may be obligated to make to provide for an inclusive customer experience, we can provide you with relevant guidance, to avoid potential litigation being brought against you.
Contact us today on 0161 696 6170 or fill in our contact form for expert advice on achieving equality and accessibility for all.
Blog author: Sneha Kashyape
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