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Saturday, July 13, 2024

Why aren’t more venues accessible?



Why Aren't Enough Venues Accessible?


Challenges in Accessibility

- **Legacy Infrastructure**: Many venues are housed in older buildings where retrofitting for accessibility can be challenging and expensive.

- **Cost**: Upgrading facilities to meet accessibility standards often involves significant financial investment.

- **Awareness**: Some owners may lack awareness or understanding of accessibility needs and benefits.

- **Perceived Demand**: Owners may underestimate the demand or need for accessibility if they have limited feedback from patrons with disabilities.


UK Law on Disabled Access and Equal Opportunities


**Equality Act 2010**: The primary legislation covering disability rights in the UK. It requires businesses to:

- **Make Reasonable Adjustments**: To remove barriers that place disabled people at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled people.

- **Avoid Discrimination**: Ensuring that disabled individuals are not treated less favorably.


Building Regulations (Approved Document M)**: Outlines the minimum requirements for accessible facilities in new buildings or major renovations.


Moral Reasons for Accessibility


1. **Inclusivity**: Everyone deserves equal access to social, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

2. **Social Responsibility**: Businesses have a duty to support the broader community, including people with disabilities.

3. **Customer Base**: Accessible venues can attract a more diverse audience, including the disabled community and their companions.

4. **Positive Reputation**: Being known as an inclusive and accessible venue can enhance a business's reputation and customer loyalty.


Ways to Make Your Venue More Accessible


1. **Physical Modifications**:

   - **Ramps and Elevators**: Install where necessary to provide alternatives to stairs.

   - **Accessible Entrances**: Ensure main entrances are accessible or provide clear signage to alternative entrances.

   - **Accessible Restrooms**: Ensure there are restrooms that can accommodate wheelchairs.

   - **Seating Arrangements**: Provide accessible seating with adequate space for wheelchairs and companions.


Communication

   - **Clear Signage**: Use large print and braille.

   - **Assistive Listening Systems**: Install in areas where announcements or performances occur.

   - **Information**: Provide information in accessible formats, such as large print or audio.


Staff Training

   - **Awareness**: Train staff to understand and accommodate the needs of disabled patrons.

   - **Emergency Procedures**: Ensure staff are trained to assist disabled individuals in emergencies.


Policy and Procedures

   - **Feedback Mechanisms**: Implement a system for receiving and addressing accessibility concerns from patrons.

   - **Booking Processes**: Make it easy for disabled individuals to book and request accommodations in advance.


 Help and Guidance


1. **Government Resources**:

   - **Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)**: Offers guidance on complying with the Equality Act.

   - **Local Authorities**: Can provide advice on building regulations and grants.


2. **Charities and Organizations**:

   - **Scope**: Provides resources and advice on disability issues.

   - **Disability Rights UK**: Offers support on accessibility and equal opportunities.

   - **AccessAble**: Provides guides to accessible places.


Consultants

   - **Accessibility Consultants**: Professionals who can assess your venue and provide specific recommendations for improvements.




Ensuring accessibility in venues is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative that benefits both businesses and the broader community. By making thoughtful modifications, training staff, and seeking expert guidance, venues can create inclusive environments that welcome everyone.

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