Posted on Aug 09, 2022
Employers and businesses including shops, local authorities and schools must take steps to remove barriers faced by people with disabilities, ensuring everyone can receive the same services and work without disadvantages.
As a business owner, how do you know which adjustments are optional and which are required by law?
The law
Let’s start at the beginning. The Equality Act 2010 states that an employer must make “reasonable adjustments”.
The onus to pay for these adjustments should never be on the employee or service user. In this case, “reasonable” means anything which can practically be done to remove disadvantage. This could be:
Is your business doing enough?
Ask yourself these questions to help determine how you could improve your business premises:
The internet means small businesses can prominently display how accessible your venue is (or any problems which you can’t avoid, such as a listed building you can’t adapt), letting people make an informed decision about whether they will be able to comfortably access your venue. Websites like Euan’s Guide provide a platform for easy reference
From ramps to automatic doors, consider your physical premises. Are your entrances, exits, toilets and changing rooms also accessible to wheelchair users?
For example, if your business offers a service, you should consider providing alternative forms of communication for deaf people or written materials in an “easy to read” format.
"Very efficient, always friendly and helpful. I have used Watkin Davies for years, and they have always been competitive. I received great support recently when I had to make a claim, so I'd highly recommend them."
"I was very impressed with the quality of the service - it was outstanding. The advisor, Ms Spear went above and beyond to give me the best driving insurance policy. The policy I have received is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much Ms Spear!"
"I've used Instructorcover Plus for my driving instructor insurance for a number of years. Not only are prices competitive, even at renewal, but customer service is fantastic. Call operators are always cheerful and incredibly helpful. Everything is always sorted in a single call, saving valuable time. Highly recommend."
"Absolutely superb service from the team, particularly Natalie. Very easy and simple process"
"As aways very efficient"
"I have used InstructorcoverPlus for my driving tuition insurance for a number of years. Their prices are always competitive and everyone I speak to is friendly and helpful."
"Ceri was very helpful and knowledgeable on the phone"
"Karrie Brewer was so helpful today, especially as one insurance company would not quote, so had to shop around for us, many thanks"
"Kelly is amazing. Very helpful and friendly, did a great job today with helping me out to get insured. Amazing service!"
"Great service. Got my first driving instructor insurance with this firm. Price was competitive and customer service provided by Jane was great. I will definitely recommend the service."
"Team were very helpful when it came time to renew my policy, taking the time to check and make any amendments needed. Would highly recommend."
"5 stars!"
"Excellent service from Watkin Davies as per usual. I love the way they do all the hard work researching best quotes and provide you with your options. All the staff are very friendly and professional, I have to highlight Ceri who always does a fantastic job for me and my family."
"Really helpful and efficient customer service, friendly and knowledgeable too. I would highly recommend InstructorcoverPlus."
"I m a returning customer and what a wonderful experience. Emma is new to her role but she was very helpful and polite throughout. She got the quote done very quickly and managed to beat all my other quotations. I therefore didn't have to waste any more time. Further she offered me three instalments at 0% which is helpful in this current economic climate. The paperwork was sent straight away. Highly recommended."
"Once again, could not have been more helpful! Still a pleasure to speak to a 'real person' who knew what they were talking about!"