A Disability-Friendly Guide to Working in London – As you might expect from a capital city, London is increasingly being recognised for the commitment that it is making when it comes to inclusivity and accessibility. For those professionals with disabilities, this vibrant and diverse city offers an environment that is warm and welcoming. And it has a wide range of resources and support systems in place to offer a working experience that is very supportive. In this brief guide we hope to highlight some key aspects that it is important to consider when embarking on a disability-friendly experience working in London – either permanently or on a temporary basis.
Workplace Accessibility
In the UK, the legislation that protects the rights of all employees with disabilities is very robust. The Equality Act 2010 mandates that all employers put in place reasonable adjustments within the workplace in order to accommodate any employee with a disability.
There are a number of ways in which an employer can do this. When it comes to physical accessibility of the workplace, this means ensuring that there are appropriate ramps and lifts for getting into and around a building. There must also be accessible toilets and also workstations that are adjustable. Because disability is not limited to mobility issues it is also important to think about sensory adaptations that can be made as well. Employers should consider adequate lighting, visual aids and also a range of assistive listening devices.
On a general front, all employers should think about cognitive accessibility in the workplace with adaptations such as clear signage, simplified instructions and also flexible work arrangements.
Transportation
On the whole, the public transport system in London is accessible. At many of the Tube stations there is step-free access. Buses have ramps and also designated spaces for wheelchair users, there are also plenty of accessible taxis available. Transport for London (TfL) have published detailed accessibility information for travellers on their website. They also offer a journey planning tool which offers users the opportunity to filter the routes they need based on their accessibility needs, helping them to create a travel plan that works for them.
Accommodation
When it comes to looking for accommodation in London it is important to give consideration to a number of accessibility features. The first and possibly the most obvious is how the building is accessed. It is a good idea to look for those accommodation options that have step-free access not only into the building but also with the accommodation unit itself.
In terms of the room itself there should be adequate space for manoeuvring wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Bathrooms should be fitted with grab bars and roll-in showers as well.
One final consideration that you may need to make is whether there are any visual aids or assistive listening devices in the room if these are a requirement for you.
Many of the hotels, aparthotels and serviced apartments in London offer accessible options. When it comes to making any accommodation booking it is advisable to communicate your specific requirements, this will allow anyone helping you with your booking to ensure your needs are met.
Support Organisations and Resources
There are a number of organisations within London that provide support and also resources for professionals who have disabilities. There are organisations that help with specific disabilities, such as RNIB, which offers support services for those who have visual impairments and Action on Hearing Loss that have a range of support for those who have hearing loss.
The government in the UK has a number of different programs and initiatives that are in place to help support employment for people with disabilities. These initiatives offer a wide range of support and advice. Access to Work offers financial assistance for those who need workplace adjustments and support services. The Disability Confident Scheme are there to help encourage employers to not only recruit but also to retain employees with a wide range of disabilities.
Other support organisations:
Disability Rights UK
Disability Rights UK offers advice, information and advocacy services The charity is run by, and for, disabled people, they have a website packed with information and it is also possible to contact them with specific enquiries.
Scope
Scope offers support and information for those individuals who have cerebral palsy and a range of other different disabilities. They have an online community, online support services and also run a telephone helpline.
Tips for a Disability-Friendly Working Experience
As a disabled person in the workplace it is only right that you should want to be able to do your job effectively. You can help your employer to help you by communicating your needs. Inform your employer regarding any specific requirements that you may have in the workplace or when travelling to a temporary workplace. This will help to ensure that any appropriate adjustments can be made. If you find it difficult to talk about your disability, create a working document to hand over to your employer, so that you can comfortably list everything you feel they could help you with.
When it comes to travelling in London make sure that you plan your commute thoroughly. This means using TfL’s accessibility resources in order to do this and also identifying all of the accessibility routes that you will need.
Make sure that you connect with support organisations. Reach out to those disability support organisations that are available and get advice, information and even networking opportunities in place.
Most importantly advocate for your rights. You are your own biggest champion so make sure that you are familiar with the Equality Act 2010 and advocate for your rights within the workplace.
Final Thoughts
London is an incredible city and one that is fully committed to creating an environment that is inclusive and accessible for professionals with disabilities. When you use all of the available resources, communicate your needs and advocate for your rights it should make navigating the city much easier. This will ensure that your working experience within London will be much more fulfilling and successful.
Poppy Watt