Salisbury-based business Solicitors, Whitehead Vizard,
are advising all small and medium-sized businesses to prepare for
the amendments to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, which
come into force in October 2004.
With 9.8 million disabled people in the country, with a spending
power of £50 billion, it makes good sense to comply with the
changes demanded by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995,
Louisa Swanton, of Whitehead Vizard, says: “The changes need
only be reasonable adjustments which do not have to impact hugely
upon the day to day running of the business.”
“Simple steps such as putting products or equipment on lower
shelves, clearer signage, documents available in Braille, and earmarked
parking spaces can all satisfy the changing criteria.” says
Louisa.
Advice on making these ‘reasonable adjustments’ is
available from Jobcentreplus and guidance on the ‘reasonableness’
is available in the Codes of Practice issued by the Disability Rights
Commission.
Whitehead Vizard also recommends small businesses to start planning
for the changes now. “You need to take into account the nature
of your business and your customers, and seek advice on where and
how to make the changes,” says Louisa.
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