Share your views on disability and the built environment

The accessibility of our homes, buildings and public spaces is an issue not just for those of us with a permanent physical disability. With an ageing population, more and more of us will experience reduced mobility in our lifetime. There are also other needs to consider, such as mental health.

This inquiry explores far those needs are considered and accommodated. It will also consider whether more could be done to increase accessibility and inclusivity of both new and existing properties and spaces.

How you can help

Join in with the Women and Equalities Committee inquiry and let them know what you think. Your answers don’t have to be long and they don’t have to answer all of the questions below.

• Send a written submission via the inquiry page

Please let them know your thoughts by Wednesday 12 October. Late submissions may still be considered. If you need an extension to the deadline or any other adjustments, please contact the committee team by emailing [email protected], or calling 020 7219 6123 or 020 7219 8776.

Things to think about

These are some of the things the Committee would like to hear about. You can see the full list of questions on the inquiry page. They will also be putting an Easy Read version of the questions on the inquiry page very soon.

Government policy on and current provision of accessible properties (including homes and commercial premises)

• How adequate is the supply of accessible properties?
• Is the Government taking current and future needs for accessible homes into account in its policies?

The effectiveness of UK legislation, policies and standards on accessibility in our homes, buildings and public spaces

• Are current building regulations performing? If not, what could be done to improve their performance?
• Is there sufficient compliance with building regulations?
• Do current standards consider the full range of disability and impairment needs?

Design and management of streets, highways, parks, public open spaces

• Are the needs of all groups given sufficient consideration in the design of streets, highways, parks and publicly accessible open spaces, for instance public toilets?

The role of designers, architects and built environment specialists in ensuring accessibility and inclusivity

• What can those responsible for the creation, maintenance and retrofitting of our built environment do to ensure that buildings and public spaces are as accessible and inclusive as possible?

Local authority and community involvement in decision-making

• To what extent are communities able to engage with decision-makers regarding the accessibility of the built environment?
• Are there any barriers to effective public engagement?
• Could local authorities do more to increase accessibility?