The Difference Between Compliance and Accessibility
Many buildings have "accessible" toilets that meet legal minimums but fail to truly serve disabled users. Genuine accessibility means:
Understanding Diverse Needs
"Disabled users" encompasses many different needs:
Mobility Impairments
Wheelchair users need:
Ambulant disabled people (those who can walk but with difficulty) may need:
Visual Impairments
Users with visual impairments benefit from:
Cognitive and Sensory Differences
For neurodiverse users or those with cognitive impairments:
Hidden Disabilities
Many disabilities aren't visible:
Common Accessibility Failures
Despite good intentions, accessible facilities often fail because:
Inadequate Space
Facilities built to minimum dimensions may be technically compliant but practically unusable. Real wheelchair users need more space than some guidelines suggest.
Mispositioned Equipment
Rails, soap dispensers, and hand dryers positioned according to plans but not tested by actual disabled users may be unreachable or in the wrong place.
Poor Maintenance
Facilities that work when installed but are allowed to deteriorate:
Misuse as Storage
Accessible facilities too often become storage cupboards, making them unavailable for their intended users.
Making Facilities Genuinely Accessible
Consult Users
The most important step is consulting disabled people about what they actually need. Building regulations represent minimums, not ideals.
Regular Testing
Test facilities regularly:
Maintain to High Standards
Accessible facilities need the same maintenance attention as others, often more because users may be unable to work around problems.
Protect from Misuse
Ensure facilities are only used for their intended purpose. Create proper storage elsewhere.
Consider Changing Places
Changing Places facilities go beyond standard accessible toilets, including:
Not every building needs Changing Places, but consider whether your users might benefit.
Hygiene Services in Accessible Facilities
Hygiene services in accessible facilities need particular attention:
Appropriate Products
Equipment must be accessible:
Sanitary Disposal
Bins must be:
Regular Service
Service must be reliable—accessible facility users often can't use alternatives if products run out.
How Doves Supports Accessibility
We're experienced in servicing accessible facilities:
Appropriate Equipment: We can advise on and supply accessible dispensers and products.
Positioning: We ensure equipment is placed where users can reach it.
Reliable Service: We maintain consistent service schedules.
Reporting: Our technicians report any maintenance issues they observe.
Contact us on 01480 210999 to discuss accessible facility services.