Archive news

08.11.05 
REMOVING THE BARRIERS TO CAR PARKS

A service to make car parks more accessible to the UK’s 2.5 million drivers with disabilities has been launched by Configure, the UK’s largest commercial disability consultancy.

Modifications can include the addition of intercoms and hearing induction loops at entry and exit barriers (a common ‘touch point’ for many disabled people with reduced mobility and hearing impairments) as well as ground markings and signage.

Many organisations assume that a few marked standard size parking bays will be sufficient, and tend to overlook the more complex obstacles disabled people face. For instance, barriers that require the insertion of a ticket can be impossible for drivers with reduced mobility in their hands, while payment machines can be located too high for wheelchair users to reach. These difficulties can be overcome with a programme of adaptations, which can be simple and low cost.

Configure carries out access audits of these features, identifies areas for chance through an accessibility assessment and costed action plan, and can even carry out any work required. This might include painted cross hatching areas and raised signs identifying disabled parking spaces.

The car parking packages are just one of a range of products offered by Configure, to enable businesses and organisations to meet their requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act. These cover a comprehensive range of cost-effective and easy-to-implement services that include access audits, auxiliary aids, building adjustments and staff disability equality training.