INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENTS

Question 1

What is the definition of an inclusive environment?

Answer 1

An inclusive environment recognises differences in the way people use the built environment.

It does not physically or socially separate, discriminate or isolate.

Question 2

What should an inclusive environment create?

Answer 2

Creates buildings, places and spaces that can be used easily, safely and with dignity, by all of us.

Question 3

Why is it important to provide choice?

Answer 3

Providing choice is important as people have different needs and requirements. Having no choice excludes people.

Question 4

What industry guidance are you aware of?

Answer 4

CIC Document - Creating an Accessible and Inclusive Environments

Question 5

How do you promote diversity of user needs?

Answer 5

Physical adjustments to buildings access, wider doorways, ramps, automatic doors, clear signs.

In workplaces having dedicated prayer rooms

Question 6

In relation to end users and potential needs, explain the principles of direct and indirect discrimination and unconscious bias.

Answer 6

Indirect discrimination happens when a rule, policy, or practice appears neutral but disadvantages a particular group more than others. It can occur unintentionally but still creates unfair outcomes.

For end users, this could mean that a service or product is designed in a way that is harder to access or use for certain groups.

Question 7

What legislation contributes to creating inclusive environments?

Answer 7

Primary

• Equality Act 2010 (UK) - Duty to make reasonable adjustments. Auxiliary aids.

Secondary

• Building regulations
• Local Planning policy

Question 8

Tell me about the NPPF/Equality Act 2010/Building Regulations.

Answer 8

NPPF mentions inclusive design - encouraging local planning authorities to require that buildings, streets, and public spaces are accessible for all

Question 9

What does Approved Document M relate to?

Answer 9

Part M has regard to access for disabled people. Part M4 (2) has regard to minor improvements to allow for access.

Part M4 (3) - more drastic measures to allow for disabled people.

Question 10

What is a PEEP?

Answer 10

A PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) is a customised plan developed to ensure the safe evacuation of individuals who may have difficulty evacuating a building during an emergency.