Inclusive Environments

Question 1

What is an inclusive environment

Answer 1

One which is designed and managed to allow people with a diverse range of needs and abilities to access and use it

Question 2

Factors to consider to ensure an environment is inclusive

Answer 2

Disabilities - physical and mental
Social isolation
Policy and legal requirements - H&S, Equality Act 2010, Building Regs

Question 3

Who has a duty to make reasonable adjustments and how is the reasonableness evaluated

Answer 3

Applies to all controllers or let premises or premises to let
Must make reasonable adjustments if a disabled person is put at substantial disadvantage
The test is:
Effectiveness of the adjustment
Practicality
Financial cost and likely disruption
Financial and other resources available to the service provider

Question 4

What does the act require of controllers in terms of access?

Answer 4

An access statement/audit
When faced with an obstacle to remove or alter the feature, or provide reasonable alternative acces

Question 5

Which other legislation enshrines the need for inclusive environments

Answer 5

Part M of the building regs - requires that reasonable provision is made to ensure that buildings are accessible and useable regardless of age, gender or disability
NPPF - planning decisions must ensure that developments create places that are safe, inclusive and accessible

Question 6

Tips for inclusive recruitment

Answer 6

Write inclusive job descriptions
Widen your search to include diverse groups
Make fair shortlisting and reasonable adjustments at interview
Set the right tone

Question 7

What tips did you learn to accommodate disabled staff

Answer 7

Provide adjustments and accommodations
Develop policies and procedures
Provide benefits
Have regular catch ups
Show support