Davis Langdon's Access Consulting service (formerly Blythe-Sanderson Group) is the leader in the establishment of access consultancy services. These services include: access audits, design appraisals, project management and occupational therapy services, along with staff training and policy development.
The list of past and present projects highlights the significant and varied impact Davis Langdon has had on the disability forum; in addition to the consequent promotion of inclusion and understanding of diversity within our community.
Through positive consultation and extensive experience, we are well equipped to provide input to corporate and public sector service providers. Our input assists clients to encapsulate the broad needs of people with disabilities and our ageing population, whilst reflecting their growing service provision requirements based on the Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) (DDA).
We have a diverse yet complimentary range of individual skill sets which include membership of Australian Standard review committees, membership of the Association of Consultants in Access (ACAA) and professional qualifications in the building and occupational therapy industries.
The Need
Following the year of the disabled in 1981, Australia has gradually moved to a position of greater awareness of the needs and abilities of people with disabilities, along with their legislative rights. This awareness is apparent in today’s Federal legislations inclusive of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth).
“The Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) provides protection for everyone in Australia against discrimination based on disability”.
“The DDA makes it against the law for any person to be discriminated against as a result of a disability. This includes: employment, access to buildings, goods, services and facilities, clubs and incorporated associations, accommodation, land and education” (Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission 1993).
This legislation provides legal support to the 20% (A.B.S. 2003) of the population who have a disability; not withstanding parents with children and the increasing elderly population who require similar access and service provision.
With such an increase in profile, has come the recognition of the need to educate and advocate appropriately for people with disabilities. Community and commercial facilities are being encouraged through legislation, including the DDA and statutory regulations such as Standards Australia and a proposed DDA compliant Australian Building Code, to provide greater opportunities for all people.
Davis Langdon can facilitate the development of service provision and access for people with disabilities.
