Other Information Sources
Here you can find a list of useful sources of information, advice and services that could be useful in developing accessible facilities at accommodation, attractions and related tourism businesses in the UK.
They may also be helpful when developing accessible facilities abroad.
Approved Document M of the Building Regulations
An on-line version of Approved Document M of the Building Regulations 2004 can be found at the following link: www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_ADM_2004.pdf
Braille Transcription UK
Offer their clients a specialist service creating Braille, Large Print and Audio for all types of business. They can convert letters and press releases, utility bills, bank statements, brochures, restaurant menus/hotel itineraries, books and magazines, PP presentations, spreadsheets and financial/legal material in fact any type of document. http://www.brailletranscriptionuk.co.uk/
British Standard - BS8300:2001
British Standard - BS8300:2001 contains useful guidance that falls outside of Approved Document M of the Building Regulations, and can be obtained from British Standards:
www.bsonline.bsi-global.com/server/index.jsp
BT Inclusion
BT has a long history of providing standard and more specialised products and services that support and advice for our customers who find communication slightly more difficult. We understand that everyone has different communication needs and, without making assumptions about capabilities and motivation to use new technology, we try to give as much information as possible to help you make an informed decision. More detailed information can be viewed at www.bt.com/inclusion. The websites are fully accessible and are compatible with Browsealoud (speech enabling electronic text). There is also a link to the BT Sign site where information is provided using BSL.
Department of Work and Pensions
This government department has responsibility for the Disability Discrimination Act. Their website includes advice for employers on implementing the Act, including real life examples in all sectors. For a case study in the tourism sector, click here
Disabled Living Foundation
The Disabled Living Foundation is a national charity that provides free, impartial advice about all types of disability equipment and mobility products for older and disabled people, their carers and families.
www.dlf.org.uk
Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
From October 2007, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) www.equalityhumanrights.com brought together the work of the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE), Disability Rights Commission (DRC) and Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) in one body.
The EHRC has taken on all of the powers of these Commissions as well as having new powers to enforce legislation more effectively and promote equality for all.
PAS88:2008
Launched on the 3rd of April 2008, this Publicly Available Specification (PAS) has been developed by the Disability Rights Commission (DRC), latterly the Equality and Human Rights Commission and VisitBritain in collaboration with The British Standards Institution (BSI).
This PAS has been developed to assist hotels in meeting their obligations under the DDA. Users of this PAS will find BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people - Code of Practice a vital resource to be used in conjunction with this PAS.
BS 8300 gives recommendations for the design of new buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people. This PAS however aims to give additional guidance on the physical features and services provided by both new and existing hotels.
Click here for more information.
Rediweld - BusPad - Raised Bus Stop Platforms
BusPad provides a cost effective raised boarding area, enabling wheelchair and other users to have improved access on buses.
http://www.rediweld.co.uk/traffic/inclusive_mobility-buspad.asp
Signage and Information
Information design guidance (eg: clear font and typeface) may be obtained from the Royal National Institute of Blind People through their ‘See-It-Right’ campaign:
www.rnib.org.uk/xpedio/groups/public/documents/PublicWebsite/public_seeitright.hcsp
Training in Disability Awareness / Welcome All
Welcome All is a one-day course designed to help individuals acquire the knowledge and skills essential for providing facilities and services that meet the specific needs and expectations of people with disabilities. It also aims to ensure a warm welcome and high standards of service are offered to all customers.
www.welcometoexcellence.co.uk/trainingprogrammes/welcomealldetails.asp
Website Accessibility
AbilityNet provides a wide range of services to individuals, professionals in the field of disability, employers and the public sector.
http://www.abilitynet.org.uk/
(Last Updated: 30-08-2008)