The Equality Act 2010 exists to tackle inequality, eradicate discrimination, victimisation and harassment, and foster good relations.
It includes the requirement for those who provide public services – even when free, to make Reasonable Adjustment. Providers of services are obliged to ensure the following:
– Where a provision, criterion or practice puts a disabled person at substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as is reasonable to have to take to avoid the disadvantage
– Where a physical feature puts a disabled person at substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as is reasonable to have to take to avoid the disadvantage
– Where a disabled person would, but for the provision of an auxiliary aid, be put at a substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as is reasonable to have to take to provide the auxiliary aid
Whilst this may appear very clear on the surface, it can be extremely difficult for a public service provider to understand exactly what this means for their service on a day-to-day basis; and what changes they need to make to ensure they comply.
At Access Alba, we have experienced and knowledgeable staff, who can assist you through the process of changing the physical aspects of your premises, your policies and structures, and your communications, to ensure you meet the requirements of the law. We do this in a pragmatic way, that allows your business to make the changes over a period of time, by prioritising the change within a short-, medium- and long-term strategic plan.
Importantly, we can provide training to your management team, and staff, to ensure that all understand the content and implications of the Equality Act, and, how to ensure you deliver your obligations under the law. Knowledge is confidence, and confidence helps to find suitable solutions, which remove the barriers disabled people face in their day-to-day lives.
Let us help you to comply with the law!