Inclusive Environments Flashcards
What are inclusive environments?
- an inclusive environment recognises and accommodates differences in the way people use the built and natural environment
- it facilitates dignified, equal and intuitive use by everyone
- it does not physically or socially separate, discriminate or isolate
- inclusive environments readily accommodate and welcome diverse user needs
What is discrimination?
- The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, religion, age, sex or disability
What are the primary legislation relevant to inclusive environments?
- Equality Act 2010
- Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
- Planning and Building Acts
What are the secondary legislation relevant to inclusive environments?
- National Planning Policy Framework
- Building Regulations
- Fire Safety Regulations
What is the British Standard relevant to inclusive environments?
- BS 8300
- relates to disabled access within buildings
How does the Equality Act 2010 influence inclusive environments?
- Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful to discriminate against the protected characteristics
What are the 9 protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010?
- Age
- Disability
- Sex
- Gender reassignment
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sexual orientation
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Pregnancy or Maternity
What are the Building Regulations that are associated with inclusive environments?
- Approved Document M - Access to and use of buildings
How does Approved Document M apply to inclusive environments?
- provides information about ease of access to and use of buildings, including facilities for disabled visitors or occupants and the ability to move through a building easily
- guidance on the use of ramps and steps is provided
- the document also provides guidance on access and use of extensions made to buildings other than dwellings and access to toilets, bathrooms and sinks within these structures
How many volumes does Approved Document M have?
- Volume 1: Dwellings
- Volume 2: Buildings Other than Dwellings
What is unconscious bias?
- decisions made based on our upbringing and preconceptions
What are the 5 principles of inclusive design?
- Place people at the heart of the design process
- Acknowledge diversity & difference
- Offer choice where a single solution cannot accommodate all users
- Provide for flexibility in use
- Create an environment that is convenient & enjoyable for everyone to use
What are some tangible examples of how a building can be inclusive?
- physical access e.g. ramps or lifts for wheelchair users
- hearing loops
- dedicated feeding areas for new parents
- accessible parking bays
- contrasting colours in key elements of the building e.g. stair noisings, plug sockets and door frames to assist the partially sighted
What is the duty on service providers regarding building users, under the Equality Act?
- take reasonable steps to avoid provision, criterion or practice which puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage
- avoid physical features which puts a disabled person at a significant disadvantage
- take reasonable steps to provide an auxiliary aid where a disabled person would, without it, be put at a substantial disadvantage
What is a ‘reasonable adjustment’ and why would it be required?
- a duty on ‘service providers’ and those exercising a public function to make reasonable adjustments
- a duty to not discriminate against or victimise someone in selling or letting premises
- a “reasonable adjustments” duty on “controllers of the premises” (i.e. landlords and management companies) in relation to let premises and common parts
