Accessibility audits

If this is a website, there are some obvious things which can be used such as audio descriptions; large enough text to read easily; using simple and clear language, and so on.  A building can be made more accessible by considering the needs of wheelchair or mobility scooter users and how they can get in the front door, or use the toilet facilities once inside.Unfortunately, many places and many services across Somerset have, in the past, not included accessibility in their planning.  This means that even though they are ‘Disabled Friendly’, disabled people may have some issues with provision, and our remit is to highlight this.  Some things which could be easily remedied; appropriate signage, or ramps that are fit for purpose, may not be considered until it is pointed out by a disabled person trying to access somewhere in the course of their day.

An accessibility audit will highlight what needs to be done in order to become more accessible.  It can give recommendations for the people in charge of that place, whether a physical building or an online community, to improve their approach to disabled people… the aim is to work together to improve accessibility for everyone in our county.