Accessibility and Equality
Accessibility of halls has improved but gaps in provision are widespread. ACRE's 2009 research showed that 77% of committees now have buildings that are fully accessible to wheelchair users, a significant increase on the 48% from 1988 but less than half have parking for disabled. Only 32% have a hearing loop and 12% have measures to assist the partially sighted.
Village halls are central to community life, therefore it is important that the services they provide are inclusive of all within the community.
Since October 2004 service providers are required to make reasonable adjustments to the physical features of their premises to overcome physical barriers to access. The legislation has implications for all public buildings - community buildings and village halls included - without disability access or similar provisions.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is the government body set up to protect the rights of disabled people. The Commission's helpline provides advice and information on the Disability Discrimination Act. Call the helpline on 08457 622 633. Further information is available on the EHRC website.
