Traders urged to get ready for disability law changes

Important changes will be made to the Disability Discrimination Act from October 1.

They will have an effect on businesses providing services to the public.

Present legislation states that companies cannot refuse to serve a disabled person or provide a lower standard of service to them because of their disability.

But new rules are about to come into force and charity bosses want to ensure Darlington firms are fully aware of them.

The rules will require traders to make "reasonable" physical changes to provide for disabled people.

This could include providing a ramp and handrail, lowering reception desks to cater for wheelchair users and ensuring premises are well lit, with clear signs.

Darlington Association on Disability (Dad) has organised a one-hour breakfast seminar to tell businesses about the changes in the law.

It will take place on Wednesday, September 22, at Darlington Rugby Club and is free to businesses providing goods, services and facilities to the public.

Dad chairman Gordon Pybus said: "The Disability Rights Commission likes what is happening in Darlington in the public sector but not so much the private sector.

"They're alarmed at all the rumours going round, people using the Act as an excuse to close businesses and others ignoring it, thinking it will go away."

Mr Pybus said: "Places like restaurants may say they can't afford to do it, but we would say they can't afford not to.

"The negative side of this is people thinking it will cost too much for nothing in return.

"But not catering for one disabled person could have a knock-on effect - what if it's a party or a leaving do?

"They'd end up losing lots of customers because they couldn't cater for one."

The full implications of the Act will be explained at the seminar and there will be a chance for people to ask questions.

Anyone wanting to attend is asked to contact Mr Pybus on (01325) 489999.

Seminars for the voluntary sector will be arranged at a later date