Questions Answered
You may have some questions regarding accessiblity and your business. We've tried to answer some common questions and concerns below:
What are the physical features that need addressing?
They can be anything from steps and stairways, exterior surfaces and paving, entrances and exits, internal and external doors, toilet and washing facilities, public facilities such as telephones, counters or service desks, lighting and ventilation, lifts and escalators.
What does the Disability Discrimination Act mean by 'reasonable adjustments'?
There is no definitive answer to this one. The term is used to give some flexibility and allow different solutions in different situations.
What is an access audit?
These will highlight where the real barriers are. Tourism South East can carry out these audits for you, including possible funding up to £200. Visit the Tourism South East website for further details.
Will compliance be costly to my business?
Not necessarily. Increased accessibility may mean simple, low-cost alterations, such as providing telephones with large buttons or ensuring there is at least one menu in large print.
What should I do next?
See the separate section on this page applicable to your business type. For a list of disability organisations, useful telephone numbers, websites and where to go for help with access audits, refer to the useful contacts section.
