Published on Wednesday 7th October 2020
In support of Purple Tuesday, a change program aimed at enhancing the shopping experience for individuals with disabilities, we have compiled a set of recommendations for the benefit of service providers such as shop owners.
In support of Purple Tuesday, a change program aimed at enhancing the shopping experience for individuals with disabilities, we have compiled a set of recommendations for the benefit of service providers such as shop owners.
Conduct An On-Site Accessibility Audit
It's essential to conduct an on-site audit to identify and address physical barriers that may hinder access for disabled customers. These barriers can encompass steps, stairways, curbs, exterior surfaces, paving, parking areas, building entrances, and exits. Please note that the Equalities Act mandates service providers, including shops, to make reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities. These adjustments can involve:
- Installing modular access ramps to offer wheelchair access over steps at entrances, which can serve as both temporary and permanent access solutions.
- Implement modular steps with yellow tread strips to aid users with impaired vision, as the bright yellow colour enhances visibility and reduces the risk of accidents.
- Consider Step Lifts: In situations where ramped access is unfeasible, step lifts can provide a permanent solution for wheelchair access. However, it's important to note that step lifts are not a temporary solution.
Free Quick Quote
Request a quick quote or email [email protected] with the full project address, drawings, photos and contact details.
Arrange Disability Training Opportunities For Front Line Staff
Not all disabilities are visible; some are concealed and not immediately evident, such as learning difficulties, mental health challenges, as well as impairments related to mobility, speech, vision, or hearing.
Training on different conditions can enhance staff members' understanding and boost their confidence when catering to diverse shoppers.
Course Recommendation: Dementia Awareness Training
The Alzheimer's Society provides dementia awareness training, which is a skill-oriented course designed for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and comprehension of dementia.
Invest In Disabled Facilities
These may include a disabled toilet, which is particularly helpful for individuals with physical disabilities. A higher toilet bowl can make standing up easier for those with reduced mobility. Alternatively, a Changing Places Unit can assist individuals with more profound and multiple learning disabilities and provide a space for caregivers to offer the necessary assistance when moving a patient from a wheelchair to a toilet and changing bed.
What Is Purple Tuesday?
Purple Tuesday is an initiative aimed at increasing awareness of the needs and value of disabled customers while striving to make the customer experience more accessible.
You can register to participate in Purple Tuesday as an organisation by visiting this link: Purple Tuesday Registration.
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