The
British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the Disability Rights Commission have
launched a joint practical guide designed to help retailers comply with part
III of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), coming into force on 1 October 2004.
Part
III of the Act affects anyone providing goods or services – including shops,
restaurants, pubs, swimming pools and hospitals – will all have to make
reasonable adjustments to their premises or the way they provide their services
to ensure access for disabled people.
The
guide will explain the new legal duties under the Act, help retailers define
what is seen as ‘reasonable’ for their particular environment and give
practical suggestions for improving the shopping experience for disabled
customers.
Kevin
Hawkins, BRC director general, said: “This guidance will prove invaluable for
any retailers that have not yet considered their policies and obligations under
the DDA. It will also reassure those retailers who have already gone to great
lengths to ensure good access for all.”
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