An "Adjusting for Better Business" Campaign has been launched in Shropshire, aiming at helping local businesses understand their responsibilities under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).
Figures show that In the West Midlands, there are 993,458 people with a limiting long-term illness, which is 18.9% of the regional population. This compares with 18.2% for the whole of the UK.
Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, calling for local businesses to "follow the example of other successful businesses in the area" by "wising up" on accessibility said:
"Many businesses in Shropshire have already woken up to the economic and ethical arguments in making themselves accessible to disabled staff, customers, their families and friends. More businesses need to wise up to this.
"This campaign gives clear and practical guidance on the range of disabilities and how easy and low cost it can be to make simple adjustments to meet people's different needs. For example, a chair beside the checkout can be as much a relief for a tired shopper with children as it can be for someone with a mobility condition, arthritis or MS."
One example of just how beneficial a few simple changes can not only benefit people with physical or mental impairments, but can also reap financial benefits to businesses, can be seen by the action taken at the Dearnford Trout Fishery in Whitchurch.
Jane Bebbington from Dearnford Trout Fishery said:
"It was important to us to make the business accessible to everyone, because fishing is one of the few sports that is inclusive as it allows disabled people to compete on the same terms as non-disabled people. It is an activity that enables disabled and non-disabled people to really share happy times together and to do so on an equal basis.
"It has been wonderful to be able to offer a totally new experience to some of our disabled customers who haven't been able to get out on the water before and take part in a sport like fishing. And it gives all our customers fresh air, light exercise, competition and the chance to be out in nature."
The local media are highlighting the message to businesses, in order to remind them of their duties to employees, potential employees, or customers under the DDA.
Further information on the Disability Discrimination Act, plus lots more information for the disabled, can be accessed from the Disability Rights Commission Website by clicking the following:
The Disability Rights Commission
The Department for Work and Pensions Website also provides information on the DDA which can be accessed by clicking the following:
DWP - The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and you
Article by Alexandra Johnston
