Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Facilities for people with disabilities are seen by property owners and designers as a grudge requirement. The regulations are considered impractical, an expense and a waste of space. If a toilet can be squeezed in, with the minimum requirements, the view is the needs of those with a disability have been satisfied.
A recent conversation has reminded me of past lessons and what we take for granted. There’s a little bit more to access for persons with disabilities than a toilet. To paraphrase the various Acts & policies, the underlying principal is human dignity, equality, and social inclusion. People must be able to fully develop their talents, participate equally in society, and benefit from opportunities.
Rather than focusing on the regulations as restrictions, property and businesses owners should be considering the benefits of including all.