Disability Access Policy

The Disability Access Policy 2006 - 2009 aims to remove administrative, procedural and physical barriers that prevent equal access to services for people with disabilities.  It is designed to reflect the Council’s commitment to independent access for all employees and members of the community. The policy aims to integrate an awareness of disability issues into policies, practices and procedures in all areas of service provision.  It also gives some guidance as to how this might be achieved and links to other polices and strategies where appropriate.  It aims to improve access, prevent discriminatory practices and reduce the risk of legal action under the Disability Discrimination Act (1995, 2005), Human Rights Act (1998) and Special Educational Needs and Disability Act (2001).

This policy supports a social model view of disability where disability is defined as the loss or limitation of opportunity to take part in society on an equal level due to barriers in society and/or the environment.

General Principles

It is the Council’s policy to:

• Actively promote disability awareness and equality ensuring that it continues to be an integral part of our strategy, service delivery and future developments.
• Continue to audit current provision to ensure that the best opportunities are taken to improve physical access to premises, the built, transport and rural environments, and prioritise future works and refurbishments.
• Be aware that any change in services might have an effect on service delivery for disabled people.
• Ensure that current information is accessible and available in appropriate formats.
• Use all available guidance, examples of good practice and of best value to ensure a corporate response to disability access issues.
• Involve our staff and customers in the process of developing and delivering the policy and procedures.
• Develop ongoing training opportunities, monitor and share examples of good practice.

Evaluating the Disability Access Policy

The progress of the Scheme should be measured on:

• Adjustments to the way in which services are delivered.
• Increase in the number of disabled customers using services.
• Greater satisfaction of disabled staff, customers and visitors with the provision made for disabled people.
• Improvements to the physical accessibility of Council buildings.
• Improvements to the physical accessibility of the built, transport and rural environments

Reviewing the Disability Access Policy

• There will be a review of progress against these measures as compared to the initial audit at 12-month periods throughout the life of the Scheme.
• Consultation with staff, customers and visitors should be incorporated into the review process.
• In addition, ODPM will monitor the Scheme through Best Value Review.

Contact and Further Information:-

If you require any further information, advice or guidance please contact the Corporate Access Officer:-

By Telephone: 01628 796481

By Post: Corporate Access Officer, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead SL6 1RF