Accessibility

When we think about accessibility in the context of most built environments, the first thing that comes to mind for most people is whether wheelchair users can directly access the building via ramps, sufficiently wide doors, and elevators. But accessibility is, as we all know, is much more than mobility

What is Inclusive Design? In construction, inclusive design is a sustainable, inclusive, and cost-effective design practice, yet is also massively underutilised. For firms that do use inclusive design when approaching new builds, it presents an opportunity for site owners to create built environments that are massively beneficial to every individual

Biophilic design (from the Greek, ‘philia’ meaning ‘love of life’) is an environmental design choice which is being adopted by architects and decorators around the world for modern office spaces and desk-based work environments. Office spaces, though largely safe and unassuming compared to workplaces of past centuries still provide potential

As access consultants at Direct Access, we often get asked this question and when we do, we tend to give a rather dry and professional answer explaining legal requirements and building regulations. Whilst it is true that these legal boxes need to be ticked, it is hardly an inspirational, encouraging,

When we think of the built environments that make up our society, whether that’s bus stations, libraries, hospitals, supermarkets, or hotels, thought is rarely ever given to the potential of these spaces were they to be rebuilt, readjusted, and made inclusive. Indeed, when we think of accessibility and inclusion in

Much is often said about disability awareness, whether it’s businesses and organizations earnestly involving themselves in the various disability awareness days that happen each year, to huge corporations painting an image of inclusivity simply because they offer images of diversity in their branding – it is clear that in today’s

In the past ten years or so wayfinding has undergone massive changes that has made getting around more accessible to all. With the ease of availability of services such as Google Maps, finding your way from A to B has never been easier. However, despite the ability to guide us

To preface, it is important that we first acknowledge that while there are generally recommended methods of communicating with blind people, they are ultimately individuals with their own experiences, and will therefore have preferences unique to them. This blog entry is based on preferred etiquette which tends to overlap among

With society’s increased reliance on digital spaces to carry out everyday tasks, ensuring the provision of Accessible Media is vital. From ordering food shopping to doing taxes to arranging doctor’s appointments to streaming films and television, the digital realm has largely superseded the analogue methods of the past. This progression

Universal design is the design philosophy that seeks to create products, spaces, and environments that are usable and accessible to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. It is a framework that acknowledges and celebrates human diversity by creating spaces that are inclusive and welcoming to everyone. At the heart

In the wake of COVID-19, the travelling habits of commuters across the world were forced to adapt to a new world of masks, distancing, and online ticket purchases. Although it would be a huge understatement to minimise the impact of the pandemic on any nation’s transport infrastructure, the UK was

Ensuring that your website is fully accessible to disabled people is becoming an increasingly vital element in the success of any institution with a public-facing platform. Whether you are a small charity owner, servant of a local government, or CEO of a large conglomerate business, chances are you also own

Neurodiversity training: Accessibility for the mind Providing neurodiversity training is a crucial element in generating truly accessible workplaces. This is because if staff members know how to accommodate cognitive disabilities, not only are welcoming and inclusive environments encouraged, but the likelihood of engagement among neurodiverse people will likely increase, creating

Making heritage sites inclusive and accessible Reserving our heritage and learning from the successes and mistakes of old are crucial in the development of a positive and better tomorrow. And nowhere is this truer than in the world of man-made structures. As society, in service of creating a better world

At Direct Access, we champion how positive social experiences can have a resulting positive impact on the lives of disabled people. Highlighting the importance of social accessibility is in turnkey to achieving this. Ranging from the emotional well-being of individual disabled people to wider perceptions of inclusivity in the public

How to best maintain evacuation chairs on your premises Despite their purpose to protect the public, evacuation chairs are often an afterthought within built environments that require them. At best, they are kept in a stairwell behind the entrance or within a storage cupboard well out of plain sight. Sometimes,

Accessibility guide for electric car charge points The BSI has recently released PAS 1899:2022, detailing new accessibility specifications for electric car charge points, as well as the public realm surrounding said charger points, and guidance detailing online information provision for charger points. The specification factors differing power ratings and locations

What makes modern student accomodation accessible? At Direct Access, we regularly encounter horror stories about students excluded from proper access to their education environments due to insufficiently constructed student accommodation failing to meet their needs and a lack of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation. A quick internet search reveals how common a

The relationship between extreme heatwaves and disability compliciations As of the time I write this blog (on the 19th of July 2022), the UK is undergoing one of its most intense heatwaves ever, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees for the very first time on record. Although we have seen a

The human mind and body are amazing feats of nature. They are both equipped to do incredible things, but as a result of stress, it is very possible that health issues could occur. In the case of our wellbeing and mental health, in the same way that we recommend eating healthily