Report calls on High Street to be more accessible

A report by the Really Useful Stuff company has shown that High Streets across the country need to do more to help those with mobility difficulties access all of their services. The research report is entitled Missing Out and was designed to see if businesses were maintaining the standard of reasonable adjustments that they are required to make for disabled customers.

From hearing loops to straight stairlifts and ramps, there are lots of ways that shops and businesses can be made accessible to all of their customers. Access for those with disabilities should be of importance at all times, but the report has identified that standards have been slipping over the past five years.

A survey was carried out with the help of over 350 disabled people and the results of the research showed that 48 per cent of these felt dissatisfied with the level of reasonable adjustments that were undertaken by businesses on the High Street, which means that only around half were happy with the service provided to them.

The study also showed that those with a disability were least satisfied with the disabled access provided by estate agents and banks, with many saying that no improvements have been made in years, whilst another common complaint was that aisles are often difficult to navigate because they are so full with merchandise. On top of this, it appeared to be the case in many situations that maintenance and poor awareness training were two areas that could be significantly improved.

The report concluded that businesses need to revive their concern in making reasonable adjustments for those who are disabled and make sure that they are an important consideration when reviewing customer service. From ensuring that a disabled bathroom is kept in good condition to allowing customers to give feedback on their experiences, there are a number of ways in which business can improve their current standards. 

Click here to read the Missing Out report published by the Really Useful Stuff company.

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