Background information

company profile

Established in 2003, Configure Limited has become the UK’s leading commercial disability access consultancy, providing intelligent and integrated solutions for businesses to meet their obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

By working closely with disabled people, Configure has developed a comprehensive range of cost-effective and easy to implement services that include access audits , auxiliary aids and equipment , building modifications , and employee disability equality training .

THE CHALLENGE

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) obliges businesses to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ in order to facilitate equal access to all goods and services. It is a civil act, so does not provide specific regulations but awaits the results of test cases in the courts. The challenge to businesses is to stay abreast of the outcomes of the various test cases going through the courts as they define the parameters of the Act and its developing demands.

THE SOLUTION

Configure is the only company that supplies integrated solutions to assist businesses to meet their obligations under the DDA. The firm brings together the knowledge and resources to audit premises for accessibility, supply auxiliary aids and equipment, carry out adjustments to buildings, and train employees – everything required . The client list includes Travelodge, Homebase, The Co-op, Wembley Stadium, Greggs, Oddbins, Oxfam, Matalan, Lancashire County Council, and many more . The company has also formed partnerships with a number of trade associations, including The Association of Exhibition Organisers, British Institute of Innkeeping, British Shops and Stores Association, and others .

THE BENEFITS

With over 10 million disabled people in the UK, with an estimated £80 billion to spend, taking action to provide equal access to goods and services is financially rewarding as well as morally right and legally correct. A large number of companies and organisations across the UK have already embraced the Act, recognising that taking action to provide inclusive access is an opportunity to increase their business by attracting as many customers as possible.