The Disability Discrimination Act came into force at the end of 1996. It is an offence to discriminate against people with disabilities in the provision of goods, facilities and services. Although not specified in the Act, church worship and activities are thought to be included within "services". The needs of visitors as well as regular worshippers need to be met. There must not be any feeling of patronage, condescension, charity or philanthropy, nor need to rely on help or attendance. Segregated routes or facilities should be avoided.
Where a physical feature makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to make use of a service, and to be able to use an emergency escape, the provider will have a duty to take reasonable steps to:
By October 1999 the legislation requires that auxiliary aids are provided and alternative means of access where reasonably feasible. Any practice or policy which makes it impossible or very difficult for disabled people to take part in services or other events will need to be changed. By 2004 all physical barriers should be removed where reasonably feasible. This time scale allows for planning and incorporating any plans into current projects.
A recommended approach is to compile an Access Plan, to identify the physical and communication barriers to access, and examine the needs of users. A strategy needs to be outlined, containing a range of options within a time frame, even though funds may not be available yet. It is a good idea to ask people who are restricted to look at the situation, and to look at any plans you have drawn up for any adaptations. Aim at a solution which will reconcile access and conservation needs. An access audit needs to take place at further intervals, to take into account any new ideas.
English Heritage recommend that alterations should form part of a long-term strategy for use, and ought to be reversible wherever possible. Measures which avoid or minimise the needs for alterations should be considered first.
