Access FAQs
Can you recommend a Builder?
A list of builders is available from the Federation of Master Builders and can be found in the Yellow Pages under ‘Builders’.
Can you recommend an Architect?
A list of Chartered Architects is available from the RSUA and can be found in the Yellow Pages under 'Architects'.
Do I need to install a lift in my building?
Part R of the Building Regulations (NI) 2006 will require the installation of a lift in all new buildings with more than one floor and may require a lift as part of alteration and extension works. Refer to the ‘Legislation’ and ‘Links’ sections.
How can I get a parking bay at my home?
The Road Service may be able to mark out a ‘disabled persons’ parking bay if they are satisfied that it is necessary. It should be noted however, that the parking bay will be available to all Blue Badge Holders. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
How can I get help to adapt my home?
The NIHE operate a “Disabled Facilities Grant”, which is available to both home owners and those renting their home. They also have information sheets to advise on the process involved. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
How do I complain if I experience a problem with access?
You should draw the management or service provider’s attention to the problem if you feel comfortable to do so, in order that they are given opportunity to remedy it. Alternatively, raise the issue with an independent third party, such as Disability Action. If you wish to pursue the matter legally you should contact the Equality Commission. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
Is there a list of accessible holiday accommodation in Northern Ireland?
At the moment there is no single list of accessible accommodation, however NITB and local Tourist Information Offices may be able to advise you. Disability Action also suggests that you check with the accommodation provider that they can meet your needs. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
Is there any funding available to improve access?
Financial assistance may be available to employers via the "Access to Work scheme" from the Jobs and Benefits Service. There is no financial assistance to service providers other than those in the voluntary and community sector who may be able to access financial assistance from those bodies set out in the 'Financial Assistance' section.
What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge scheme enables parking concessions for disabled people to park in an on-street disabled persons parking space for as long as indicated by the local signage or where no time restriction is applicable without restriction.
In addition a disabled person may park free and without time limit in charged on-street parking areas, and on certain single and double yellow lines for up to three hours if safe to do so. More information is available from DRD Roads Service. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
What is a RADAR key?
A RADAR key is a key which can be used to unlock wheelchair accessible toilet facilities that are fitted with a RADAR lock. Many public toilet facilities are kept secure and available for use by disabled people using these keys. You can get a key from RADAR or from your local council – Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
What is the law on access to buildings?
In Northern Ireland the requirement to make buildings accessible is dictated by Equality Legislation and Building Regulations. These are set out in the 'Legislation' section.
What is “Universal design”?
Universal design strives to achieve products, buildings and environments which are available to all people, rather than creating separate solutions for disabled people.
Where can I find a public accessible toilet?
RADAR compiles a list of those accessible toilets which are fitted with a RADAR lock. Also local councils should be able to advise on the location of public wheelchair accessible toilet facilities.
Where can I find a Shopmobility Scheme?
The National Federation of Shopmobility (NI) keeps a list of Shopmobility providers. Alternatively, the local authority?council? should be able to advise on the location of schemes in their area. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
Where do I get a Blue Badge?
An application should be submitted to Roads Service, Disabled Person’s Badge Scheme Central Office, Enniskillen. The application forms are available from Roads Service, online and at Disability Action Offices. Refer to the ‘Links section.
Who can advise on what I need to do to improve access?
As a first measure of compliance it is advisable to undertake an Access Audit of your premises, which should assess accessibility from a pan-disability perspective. Refer to the “Access Consultancy” section.
Who checks access to buildings?
Compliance with the DDA is not inspected by any one public body however, any individual disabled person has the right to pursue a case under the DDA. Compliance with the Building Regulations will be checked by local authority building control officers during and on completion of works. Refer to the ‘Links’ section.
Who enforces the Disability Discrimination Act?
The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland has the powers of enforcement of the DDA. However, any disabled person has the right to pursue a case under the DDA if they feel they have been discriminated against for a reason relating to their disability. Refer to the ‘Links’section.
Who supplies Disability Aids and Equipment?
A list of suppliers is available in the Yellow Pages under ‘Mobility Aids and Equipment’.
