Inclusive Design Magazine Nov/Dec 2024

FUTURE PERFECT?

ADDRESSING THE SHORTAGE OF SUITABLE HOMES FOR OLDER PEOPLE

CONTACTS

EDITOR

Juliet Davies juliet@inclusive-design.co.uk

sales@inclusive-design.co.uk

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Stuart Moody h3opublishing@gmail.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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Please send any comments to the editor by email to the address above

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Printed in the UK using only paper from FSC/PEFC suppliers

ISSN 2976-8888

Copyright © Blue Beetle Media 2024

FROM THE EDITOR

“Should we expand our editorial to cover how different countries approach accessible design?”

Iwas just taking a look through our mailing lists, and whilst we can currently only post the print issue to UK addresses, we have digital subscribers all around the world, which is a source of delight to us - hello Hyderabad, San Francisco, Sydney, Wellington, Muscat, Cairo, Mexico City, Paris! Maybe we should expand our editorial to cover how different countries approach inclusive and accessible design? That’s a thought for 2025!

In the meantime what’s in this last issue of 2024? There are so many connected stories within the editorial; Jacquel Runnalls, who authored the Inclusive Housing Design Guide, our prize on p22, is mentioned in the Last Word by Allan Craigen of 1 Level. (We became aware of Allan as we heard he was building a small development of accessible bungalows, so naturally we were interested and wanted to find out more!) Housing for older people is addressed by both Caroline Abrahams of Age UK and Holly Holder of

Centre for Ageing Better, who discuss the shortage of suitable homes and funding for home adaptations and improvements respectively.

Education features too; our case study looks at Pick Everard’s latest SEND school, we take a look ahead at the Education Estates® SEND Conference at the Science Gallery, London in February, and Paul Smith of Foundations and Janet Seward of TACT both discuss the training of the Trusted Assessor.

And I’m already busy with the Jan/Feb issue, it’s going to be a really good one… What are your thoughts on accessibility in the built environment in your sector? Let me know, get in touch!

Juliet Davies, Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

BEN TOWNSEND

Ben, a brain/spinal cord injuries lawyer, is Head of Personal Injury Leeds at law firm Stewarts, and was awarded Partner of the Year 2021 by Yorkshire Legal.

GADGET: Apple Watch. Really handy for monitoring exercise and making sure I don’t spend too much time sitting down.

PASTIME: I cycle everywhere I can. I have more time to now my kids can drive!

PAUL KNIFTON

Paul is a chartered architect at Pick Everard, with almost 25 years' experience in the design of commercial, logistics, educational and mixed-use buildings.

GADGET: My green G-Shock watch. It's tough, water-resistant, and goes with anything; perfect for everyday adventures!

PASTIME: Riding BMX. It's challenging. I enjoy learning new tricks, exploring trails, and the freedom it gives me outdoors.

Juliet

Cover image: courtesy agewithoutlimits.org/image-library

Coming soon from Foundations:

DFG ASSESSMENT TRAINING

Trusted Assessor Level 4: Assessing and Adapting the Home

Undertake assessments for simple DFG funded adaptations in accordance with the official 2022 DFG Delivery Guidance - improving delivery times and freeing up Occupational Therapists to focus on more complex cases.

This Level 4 OCN certified training course will allow you to:

Complete robust DFG assessments for home adaptations; Evaluate the suitability of the environment; and Provide a safe and preventative solution.

Join the waiting list to get the dates first

Led by Kate Sheehan The OT Service

ON THE COVER: Investment is required for construction and adaptations

LEGAL & FINANCE

Personal Injury Lawyer Ben Townsend weighs up home rental versus purchase

PLANNING

Innova Care Concepts are addressing the difficulty of accessing hydrotherapy pools

10 MAKING A SPLASH

“There are more than 600,000 non-decent homes that have a serious category one falls risk.”

REGULARS

06

CASE STUDY EDUCATION

The importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces in the SEND sector that allow children to learn and flourish

HOLLY HOLDER, (p26), Deputy Director for Homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, explains why funding home adaptations and improvements is also funding for a healthier country.

Allan Craigen of 1 Level tells us why he was inspired to construct accessible bungalows

HOUSING Caroline Abrahams of Age UK says we must urgently address the huge shortage of suitable homes for older people

FUNDING The increased DFG funding is good news for accessible housing, says Holly Holder of the Centre for Ageing Better

TRAINING

Janet Seward of TACT explains the role of Trusted Assessor and the training required to add this to your job title

Paul Smith of Foundations explains why he’s excited about the creation of Trusted DFG Assessors

INTERIORS

HOMELIFTS Amy Francis-Smith explains how Stiltz have facilitated an evolution in access

WELLBEING Innova Care Concepts have created an on-line register of hydrotherapy pools

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Jade Hegarty of BATA explains how AT helps all individuals learn, grow, and contribute fully

COMPETITION

WIN a copy of The Inclusive Housing Design Guide, brought to you by Habinteg Housing Association and CAE

EDUCATION ESTATES® SEND CONFERENCE A look ahead to the education community’s gathering in London

LESSONS TO LEARN

With an estimated 15 to 20% of children and young people1 in the UK being neurodivergent, their needs are a key factor in the design of SEN schools, as Pick Everard strategic account director and chartered architect Paul Knifton explains.

With the new government pledging more support for students with special educational needs (SEN)2, helping to ensure they can learn in a tailored, inclusive environment has never been more important.

As architects and designers in the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) sector, we are fully aware of the importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces that allow children to learn and flourish.

According to government figures3, more than 1.6 million pupils in England have special educational needs - an increase of 101,000 from 2023. This includes the number of pupils with an education, health and care (EHC) plan and the number of pupils with SEN support, both of which continue a trend of increases since 2016.

The most common type of need for those with an EHC plan is autistic spectrum disorder, while those with SEN support have speech, language and communication needs.

Carefully creating a learning environment that recognises a complex range of physical and cognitive difficulties, including neurodevelopmental conditions, is paramount in our work with schools and education trusts across the UK.

While designing a SEND school is rarely a ‘one-size’ fits all approach, there are key elements in our wide-ranging experience that we know are successful in creating a place where children can thrive.

DOING THE GROUNDWORK

One of the most important steps in developing a new SEND school is collaborating with the teaching staff, building a deep understanding of not only the pupils’ needs but how teachers need the right sensory surroundings to nurture their young students. It is important to explore what each space will be used for, discussing the surroundings, the decor, lighting and heating, and go into granular detail.

One teacher might want a breakout space right next to the classroom so a pupil can have some time out and be brought back into class, while another teacher might prefer the room to be further away in a quiet corner.

It's all down to the people that are actually utilising the space and what their preferences are; we take this into account but can also use our knowledge and experience to advise on good practice.

This was the case at Bowman Academy4, a specialist school for pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs in Shepshed, Leicestershire. The school, which must meet a diverse range of pupil requirements, has a range of facilities, including a sensory ‘dark room’, a calming room, as well as classrooms with vinyl areas to support practical learning.

The facilities were discussed through a rigorous stakeholder management plan, which included client engagement meetings over a six-week period to lock-in the school design, as well as an extensive consultative period, which included a public consultation and online webinar to take into consideration the needs of the wider community.

STRICT GUIDELINES

There’s a great deal of flexibility in designing learning spaces for SEND schools, particularly when incorporating a school’s ‘brand’ and ethos into its design palette, but there are strict guidelines too, set by the Department for Education (DfE).

Requirements around the specifications of certain building elements and the proportions of teaching spaces are standardised to ensure children and staff feel as comfortable as possible, while achieving a positive learning environment.

The statutory BB104 guidance for SEND and alternative provision is built into the

“THE BOWMAN ACADEMY MEETS A DIVERSE RANGE OF PUPIL REQUIREMENTS, AND INCLUDES A SENSORY DARK ROOM, A CALMING ROOM, AND CLASSROOMS WITH VINYL AREAS TO SUPPORT PRACTICAL LEARNING”

PAUL KNIFTON

Above: There’s a great deal of flexibility in designing learning spaces for SEND schools Left: The Bowman Academy is a specialist school for pupils with SEMH needs in Leicestershire

DFE guidelines. Schools use the guidance to pick a suite of spaces they would like, and whether they want to adapt standard spaces to be more SEND-focused, which they can receive additional funding for, to create a bespoke space to meet their requirements.

The DfE advises creating a linear formation of the school building, which has underpinned our SEND programme with Bowmer + Kirkland (B+K), helping to enhance environmental safety.

CHOOSING THE BEST COLOURS, TEXTURES & LIGHTING

Once the formation is complete, selecting a colour palette that can stimulate or calm SEND pupils is a major factor in school design. The pupils could be very sensitive to primary colours, so you can’t have bright red wayfinding signs in the corridors, for example. We must also consider the way that pupils move through the building. For someone with autism or sensory process disorder, going from a small, dark space to suddenly being in a big, open space with lots of noise can just hit them too hard. Similarly, the size and length of corridors is important. We've had projects where we've taken out long corridors to ensure pupils aren’t confined to a single space for a long time, while creating corners ensures a pupil isn’t suddenly exposed to a large area.

“SELECTING A COLOUR PALETTE THAT CAN STIMULATE OR CALM SEND PUPILS IS A MAJOR FACTOR IN SCHOOL DESIGN”

PAUL KNIFTON

Each school is tweaked to suit the specific criteria of the children. They will have different spaces and schedules of accommodation within those spaces to meet the needs of their pupils.

Texture is very important for pupils with heightened sensitivity, so we ensure their surroundings can become softer and quieter, with soft lighting.

Numerous studies have also highlighted the importance of biophilic design, which is a way of connecting to nature through incorporating natural elements in a building, thus promoting feelings of health and wellbeing.

NOISE CONSIDERATIONS

Another key factor is the building’s acoustics and to avoid echoing sounds. These schools need to limit the effects of noise, and have stringent requirements regarding hearing impaired children, so acoustic panels and non-reflective materials are essential.

Above: Sensory items and surroundings can stimulate or calm children as required

Noise can be an issue in dining spaces. In one of our projects, the school had children with sensory processing disorders who couldn’t sit in the dining hall.

So we designed a dual use space alongside the dining hall, which can be used as a small group room or a meeting room during lesson time that turns into a getaway quiet space once it’s lunchtime. The pupils might have their sandwiches in there rather than queueing up for food in a big, noisy space.

AGE RANGE IS A FACTOR

If there are different ages in the same building, such as primary, secondary and sixth form pupils, it’s important that their spaces have an individual feel, so they feel comfortable in their own surroundings.

That includes external spaces too, especially at lunch and break times. Really young children might have their own space for safety and security, while the primary pupils might have more of a free rein. We ensure they have a visual connection to the secondary areas so they can see where they will be going as they grow up through the school. That can be aspirational and comforting while letting them start to become familiar with that space from a distance.

EASILY ADAPTABLE

A final consideration is the use of partitions. We use partitions in all our school projects, using typically, a steel frame on a regular grid, to subdivide the spaces. They are easily adaptable, so can be taken down and repositioned in whatever way they are needed in the future.

Having adaptable spaces is important for a range of uses, such as after-school activities and clubs, when a building isn’t

Above: Paul Knifton

Below: Some teachers want a breakout space next to the classroom so a pupil can have some time out

“THESE SCHOOLS HAVE STRINGENT REQUIREMENTS REGARDING HEARING IMPAIRED CHILDREN, SO ACOUSTIC PANELS AND NON-REFLECTIVE MATERIALS ARE ESSENTIAL” PAUL KNIFTON

always going to be at full capacity. We design them with the wider community in mind, so they can be opened up in the evenings for events or the mornings for breakfast clubs and wraparound care.

The children’s arrival at school is a key factor. For example, at one SEND school with 210 pupils, each child arrives in their own taxi, which is a lot to consider. The method of getting them out of the comfort of the taxi and into the school is also critical and needs to have a quite rigorous process.

FUTUREPROOFING DESIGN

We’re seeing an evolution in the design of SEND schools and we’re embracing the need to make the design process and end result as efficient as possible for carbon zero outputs.

Our sector is facing a big change with the new DFE framework, expected in early 2025, and we're all waiting to understand what the output requirements of that will be and its impact.

Creating and developing each SEND school is a wonderfully fulfilling process and we continue to learn so much. There's no guidebook on SEND design; we have best practices that have developed over the years, but nothing can compare with talking to staff and specialists to help meet vital community need.

FOOTNOTES

1) https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/findstatistics/special-educational-needs-in-england

2) https://www.learningdisabilitytoday.co.uk/news/neweducation-secretary-pledges-to-provide-more-support-tochildren-with-send/

3) https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/findstatistics/special-educational-needs-in-england

4) https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/insights/work-completes-onnew-send-school-in-leicestershire

For more information on Pick Everard, please visit www.pickeverard.co.uk.

POOLING

RESOURCES

Hydrotherapy plays a vital role in improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall well-being of individuals with various physical and neurological conditions. However, despite its numerous benefits, accessing hydrotherapy pools in the UK is becoming an increasingly difficult challenge for families and care professionals. Innova Care Concepts have a plan to change this…

Making hydrotherapy accessible for all is a growing challenge; a combination of public facilities closing due to rising costs, and a lack of clear information on available pools, have left thousands of people struggling to find the hydrotherapy services they need.

This issue is particularly concerning for individuals with complex disabilities and care needs, as many hydrotherapy users require special equipment, such as hoisting systems or hygiene rooms, to access the pools safely. Without reliable and easy to find information about the availability of such facilities, it becomes nearly impossible for users and their caregivers to confidently locate a pool that meets their specific requirements.

As the accessibility crisis deepens, a new tool from hydrotherapy pool design and fit-out specialists, Innova Care Concepts, is offering hope by shining a light on available hydrotherapy facilities and providing a resource for local communities to find pools that meet their needs.

THE QUEST FOR HYDROTHERAPY: WHERE IS MY NEAREST POOL?

Finding a hydrotherapy pool in the UK has become an uphill battle. While there are approximately 180 hydrotherapy pools open to the public across the country, gaining regular access to these facilities is a significant challenge.

The number of accessible pools pales in comparison to the demand, and a combination of logistical and financial barriers has made it nearly impossible for many families to secure the therapy they need.

“THIS INNOVATIVE TOOL AIMS TO EMPOWER FAMILIES AND CARE PROFESSIONALS BY PROVIDING THEM WITH A SIMPLE, USERFRIENDLY WAY TO LOCATE HYDROTHERAPY POOLS THAT MEET THEIR SPECIFIC NEEDS”

The HydroPool Finder is a platform designed to build a sense of community among those who rely on hydrotherapy

Right:

A recent study by Muscular Dystrophy UK paints a stark reality on the severity of the issue. The research highlights several key obstacles facing those seeking hydrotherapy treatment, that include:

Limited availability: Many hydrotherapy pools are located in schools and are only open during school hours or term times, making access highly restrictive.

Financial barriers: Privately-owned hydrotherapy pools can charge as much as £75 for a 30-minute session, an exorbitant cost for many families and care providers.

Travel distances: Nearly 20% of respondents in the Muscular Dystrophy UK study reported traveling between 20 and 100 miles to reach a hydrotherapy pool.

Accessibility issues: Many pools lack the necessary equipment for individuals with disabilities, such as hoisting systems or appropriate changing facilities.

This combination of factors leaves many families and caregivers grappling with the physical, emotional, and financial strain of

securing hydrotherapy services.

Alarmingly, the same study reveals that there are more than 362 hydrotherapy pools in the UK exclusively for animalsmore than twice the number available for people with muscle-wasting conditions.

Hydrotherapy is a proven therapeutic intervention that can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis. Its benefits include improved mobility, reduced pain, and better coordination and balance.

Yet, the stark disparity between the number of hydrotherapy pools available for animals versus people highlights the huge challenge in finding and using public hydrotherapy pools in the UK.

"ACCESSING

HYDROTHERAPY POOLS IN THE UK IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT"

INTRODUCING THE HYDROPOOL FINDER: A SOLUTION FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Having worked with families, occupational therapists and case managers over the last decade, Innova Care Concepts have recognised the urgent need to address the hydrotherapy accessibility gap.

To deliver a solution to the problem, Innova have partnered with the Aquatic Therapy Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (ATACP) and The Paddock Pool, to develop the HydroPool Finder.

This innovative tool aims to empower families and care professionals by providing them with a simple, user-friendly way to locate hydrotherapy pools that meet their specific needs.

The HydroPool Finder is very simply an online map that lists hydrotherapy pools across the UK. It allows users to search for facilities based on their location, the cost of sessions, pool depth, and the availability of essential equipment such as hoisting systems. Pool providers are encouraged to make their facilities visible on the platform, ensuring that users can easily find the most suitable pool in their local area.

Each pool listed on the HydroPool Finder includes comprehensive details such as the venue's address, on-site facilities, pool availability, and even photographs of the pool. For those seeking more in-depth information, the tool features a ‘Featured Pools’ section, which highlights specific venues and provides contact information for aquatic therapy practitioners on site.

ADDRESSING ACCESSIBILITY GAPS: REAL-TIME POOL UPDATES

One of the key benefits of the HydroPool Finder is its ability to notify users about newly available pools in their chosen area. As public hydrotherapy pools continue to close, staying informed about new facilities as they open can be a game-changer for families and care professionals.

The tool’s personalised notification system allows users to select regions of interest and receive updates when new pools that meet

Above: Hydrotherapy is a proven therapeutic intervention

“HYDROTHERAPY IS A PROVEN THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION THAT CAN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE WITH IMPROVED MOBILITY, REDUCED PAIN, AND BETTER COORDINATION AND BALANCE”

their criteria become available. This feature ensures that users and carers don’t have to continually search for pools, saving valuable time and providing peace of mind.

In an era where access to healthcare services is becoming increasingly complex, tools like the HydroPool Finder offer a much-needed solution to streamline the process of finding hydrotherapy resources.

BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT: ADDING A POOL TO THE FINDER

The HydroPool Finder is more than just a search tool; it is a platform designed to build a sense of community among those who rely on hydrotherapy. By enabling users to contribute information about

Right:

Many hydrotherapy users require special equipment, such as hoisting systems or hygiene rooms, to access the pools safely

hydrotherapy pools they are familiar with, the tool fosters a collective effort to expand access to these crucial services.

Below:

The HydroPool Finder is an online map that lists hydrotherapy pools across the UK

Users can easily add details about pools they know of by creating an account on the platform. They are encouraged to submit information such as the pool’s name, address, and any relevant specifications about equipment and accessibility. Once the details are verified, the pool is added to the database, helping to build a more comprehensive resource for the entire community.

This collaborative approach not only helps ensure that all available pools are accurately represented, but it also encourages users to share valuable insights and recommendations, ultimately making hydrotherapy more accessible for everyone who needs it.

TRANSFORMING HYDROTHERAPY ACCESSIBILITY IN THE UK

The accessibility of hydrotherapy pools in the UK is at a critical juncture. With public pools closing and the costs of private facilities rising, many individuals are being left without access to the aquatic physiotherapy they need to improve their health and well-being.

The HydroPool Finder represents a significant step forward in addressing this issue. By offering a simple, effective way for families and care professionals to locate hydrotherapy pools that meet their needs, Innova Care Concepts is helping to ensure that more people can benefit from this lifechanging therapy.

In a time of growing demand for accessible healthcare services, tools like the HydroPool Finder have the potential to transform how we approach hydrotherapy in the UK. By increasing visibility and making it easier to find the right facilities, this platform can play a pivotal role in expanding access to hydrotherapy for all.

For more information about the HydroPool Finder, or to find out how you can make your hydrotherapy facility visible to those in need, contact Innova Care Concepts today. Check out the HydroPool Finder here https://access.innovacareconcepts.com/

Transforming Homes Enhancing Lives

Create your dream accessible home with Innova Care Concepts, specialists in designing and fitting accessible homes that promote independence and wellbeing.

TACTical MANOEUVRES

In November 2024, Trusted Assessing and Care Training (TACT) analysed over 300 records of learners who had been trained as Trusted Assessors in the previous 12 month period. The findings make interesting reading and provide a snapshot of the range of roles and backgrounds engaging with the role of Trusted Assessor.

Janet Seward, TACT Partnerships Manager, explains…

Who are Trusted Assessors?

The role of Trusted Assessor was first devised almost twenty years ago as part of a Department of Health initiative to improve access to community equipment. ‘A Competency Framework for Trusted Assessors’ was published as a result of consultation on identifying the skills needed to handle simple assessments, the Framework is still used as the basis for service and role planning and a copy of it can be downloaded free*.

In 2019 RCOT and Housing LIN’s report ‘Adaptations without Delay’** set out the case again for roles other than Occupational Therapist (OT) to handle simple cases and know when to refer the more complex ones enabling scarce OT resources to focus on where they are most needed.

For most learners, our findings show that the role of Trusted Assessor is typically an additional role being added to a core job role. Fewer than 1% of the people TACT trained gave Trusted Assessor as their current job title; only three people in our sample of over 300.

A RANGE OF ORGANISATIONS

A wide range of organisations are engaging with the role of Trusted Assessor; Local Authorities and their directly contracted providers are at the top of the list with a total of 44% of learners (40% directly employed by local authorities). This covers a wide variety of service delivery areas and levels – see the job role split for a sense of the variety of those. Second in importance are NHS Trusts with 20% of learners.

In third place we see domiciliary care providers - these organisations have daily contact with service users and are ideally placed to notice needs and be able to act on them. At 13% of learners, we expect to see further growth in this part of the health and social care sector.

Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs) and Housing Associations are in equal next place with 6% for each of our learner base. Both types of housing-based specialist organisations are tasked with adapting homes to make them suitable for older and disabled people as part of their daily work.

AVOID POTENTIAL DELAYS

The housing association staff we have trained are keen to act quickly in providing suitable housing and they want to avoid potential delays caused by local waiting lists for assessments.

TACT has been delighted to train staff from construction and surveying organisations, charity and voluntary organisations, and independent OT practices, and we hope to engage with more of them this year.

And the take-up of places from the retail sector (companies supplying independent

“THE REPORT SET OUT THE CASE FOR ROLES OTHER THAN OT TO HANDLE SIMPLE CASES AND KNOW WHEN TO REFER THE MORE COMPLEX ONES”

JANET SEWARD, TACT PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

living equipment and home adaptations) is really pleasing to see. BHTA, the leading trade body in the sector, endorses the value of this qualification for staff involved in selling and recommending equipment to the public.***

A RANGE OF ROLES

The major finding from our analysis is the inspiring range of roles who are adding ‘Trusted Assessor’ to their current job description, such as OTs, Therapy Assistants, Care Directors/Managers, Care Team Leaders/Supervisors, Social Workers, and Caseworkers.

The most surprising finding is the sheer range of roles emerging from this analysis, even after grouping similar roles together. We hope that the list provides inspiration to leaders and service managers considering how to speed up access to home adaptations.

We train many OTs and at first sight this is surprising, given that the role is designed to free up OTs to deal with more complex cases. Most of the OT learners we see are newly qualified into their role or they are changing specialisation; the most common switch is from specialising in mental health services to becoming more involved in equipment and home adaptations.

"ORGANISATIONS

EMPLOYING OT ASSISTANTS AND APPRENTICES OFTEN INCLUDE THE QUALIFICATION AS PART OF THEIR ROLE DEVELOPMENT”

JANET SEWARD, TACT PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

ROLE DEVELOPMENT

Organisations employing OT assistants and apprentices often include the qualification as part of their role development, seeing the learning as a core component of their L&D programme.

We are encouraged by the vision shown by employers in understanding how being qualified as a Trusted Assessor can optimise those visits and interventions with older and disabled people that form part of their daily work. We are excited to explore how the role can be expanded further into areas including charity and voluntary roles that provide support, social prescribers, and a wide range of services around the person.

On the five-year anniversary of the ‘Adaptations without Delay’ report and almost twenty years since the publication of the ‘Competency Framework for Trusted Assessors’ there is much more that can be done to transform access to home adaptations.

“THE MAJOR FINDING FROM OUR ANALYSIS IS THE INSPIRING RANGE OF ROLES WHO ARE ADDING ‘TRUSTED ASSESSOR’ TO THEIR CURRENT JOB DESCRIPTION”

JANET SEWARD, TACT PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

ABOUT TACT

TACT is an OT-led national company specialising in assessing, training, and consulting on assessing for equipment and home adaptations. Established in 2022 by Clare Barber, who devised the national Trusted Assessor qualifications at levels three and four, courses are accredited by OCN London and include both public and private training programmes in a range of formats. TACT’s trainers are all OTs with a background in home adaptations.

An expanded version of this article, showing additional statistics and tables, can be seen by scanning the QR CODE

FOOTNOTES: * https://trustedassessing.com/resources-a-competency-framework-for-trustedassessors/ ** https://www.housinglin.org.uk/_assets/Resources/Housing/Support_ materials/Other_reports_and_guidance/Adaptations-Without-Delay.pdf *** https://www.bhta.com/bhta-helps-launch-trusted-assessor-course-for-retailers/ ID

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As the population ages, the demand for age-friendly homes grows and with bungalows coming in at a premium, the importance of accessible housing will only increase. Amy Francis- Smith, RIBA, explains how proactive design - integrated into homes before they become a necessity - can save costs, add value to a property and enhance the quality of life for residents

A REVOLUTION IN ACCESS

With just 9% of the housing stock in England having basic access features* and over 1.8 million people in need of accessible housing**, it is clear far too many disabled and older people are having their ability to live independently majorly impacted.

Thankfully over the last few decades, accessible tech in domestic properties has undergone significant advancements; among these, the homelift particularly stands out. Once confined to commercial settings, lift technology has now firmly established itself as a crucial element of inclusive design, especially when creating age-friendly homes.

The journey of homelifts - from their initial conception to the innovative and compact solutions we see today - highlights how technology can enhance both independence and quality of life.

Historically, lifts were designed for public spaces like shopping centres, airports and office buildings, where accessibility was driven by legal requirements and the need to accommodate large numbers of people. The home environment however, remained largely untouched by this technology. For many years, the stairlift was the solution for those with mobility challenges.

While stairlifts address some mobility issues, they come with limitations. Users need a degree of physical strength and balance to use them safely. Two sets of walking aids will be needed with a stairlift, one for each floor, adding complexity, clutter and expense to everyday living.

Stairlifts obstruct narrow staircases and can require a fake doubleheight step, ironically creating a disabling environment for the rest of the household, who have to squeeze past them. OTs sometimes dismiss stairlifts as unsuitable for people with more complex needs. This decision forces many to live exclusively on the ground floor of their properties, restricting access to normal family life and affecting the lives of others in the home as well. A more versatile, future-proofed solution was sorely needed.

The homelift concept aims to bring functionality and freedom of vertical movement to residential properties without compromising space or aesthetics.

The first homelifts were adaptations of platform or wheelchair lifts, originally designed for commercial spaces. While functional, these early lifts were bulky, requiring substantial floor space and structural modifications. They often resembled hospital equipment more than

something suited for a family home. The demand for more discreet, design-conscious solutions led to the development of the modern homelift; compact, elegant, and created specifically for residential use. Modern homelifts offer significant advantages over traditional solutions like stairlifts or moving sleeping and bathroom arrangements downstairs. For one, they require far less space than a full extension or external ramp. Instead of sprawling across the property’s footprint, a through-floor lift utilises vertical space, leaving the existing layout largely intact. This makes it an attractive option for preserving a home’s design integrity while improving accessibility.

Above: Stiltz Duo+ is the newest addition to the Duo home lift range

Homelifts provide an elegant solution for ageing in place; allowing individuals to remain in their beloved homes when declining mobility begins to affect movement. Unlike stairlifts, which might only offer a temporary fix, homelifts adapt to evolving needs. For example, a lift designed for standing passengers can easily accommodate a wheelchair if the user’s condition changes at a later date. This adaptability makes homelifts a long-term futureproofing investment, both financially and in terms of peace of mind for users and loved ones alike.

Homelifts also address safety concerns. Stairs are one of the most common areas for accidents in the home, especially for older adults. By removing the need to navigate stairs altogether, homelifts significantly reduce the risk of falls, providing a safer environment for residents and their families.

One of the most impressive features of today’s homelifts is the compact design, easily fitting into existing spaces. They can be installed in living rooms, hallways, cupboards or even within stairwell voids, requiring minimal structural disruption. This space efficiency is a major selling point for designers and architects looking to integrate accessibility solutions without sacrificing style.

While many companies have contributed to the evolution of homelift technology, few have achieved the level of innovation and user focus Stiltz Homelifts has. They have brought a fresh perspective to the market, designing lifts specifically for the home environment. Their compact, good-looking, and gamechanging products have redefined what a homelift should be.

For designers, the availability of Building Information Modelling (BIM) files simplifies the integration of Stiltz Homelifts into architectural plans, making them an excellent choice for projects focused on inclusive design.

The Stiltz Trio+ Homelift exemplifies the company’s forwardthinking approach. Designed with wheelchair users in mind, the Trio+ offers a spacious interior, a higher safe working load, and enhanced features for ease of use. The new Trio Classic L takes this innovation further, accommodating larger powered wheelchairs with its wider, powered door and near-level access.

Of course, safety and user comfort are at the forefront of all the Stiltz products. Features like light curtains, sensors above and below the lift, and an option of a fully enclosed cabin ensure a secure experience for all users. The aesthetics of Trio+ are equally impressive, with clean lines and a minimalist design that blends beautifully with both contemporary and more traditional interiors. Importantly, the lift is powered by a simple 13-amp socket, so no intensive electrical rewiring is needed and no noisy and bulky hydraulic pumps to drive the lift.

The impact of a homelift on homeowners is profound. For those previously limited by stairs, these lifts restore access to the entire home, fostering independence and freedom. Whether it’s elderly individuals looking to age-in-place or families with mobility-challenged loved ones, the homelift offers a lifechanging solution.

By designing products that fit within most domestic budgets and avoiding the need for extensive renovations, Stiltz has made homelifts attainable for a broader audience. Their solutions have been specified by local authorities and praised by occupational therapists for their adaptability to clients’ long-term needs.

The message for designers, access consultants, and occupational therapists is clear: homelifts are no longer a luxury but a core component of inclusive design. By incorporating innovative assistive technology, we can create homes that are not only functional but beautiful and sustainable for years to come.

Find out more at www.stiltzhealthcare.com

A Stiltz Homelift is an ideal and affordable alternative to a stairlift. You can now safely travel between the floors in your home while keeping your stairs the way they have always been.

Neat, discreet, affordable and elegant

A Stiltz Homelift can be installed into almost any room in your home.

A Stiltz is uniquely compact with the smallest model taking up just over half a square metre. At the touch of a button a Stiltz Homelift turns your now home into your forever home.

Free, no obligation survey

A Stiltz Homelifts Consultant can visit your property to help you plan the best location for your homelift.

They can also answer any questions you might have, as can any of the friendly, UK-based phone team.

For a FREE brochure or no obligation survey give Stiltz Homelifts a call today!

The UK’s Number 1 Homelift

• Rapid service

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* ask an adviser for details

FIRM FOUNDATIONS

Discover the vital role played by the education estate in providing safe, inclusive, inspirational environments for young people enabling them to thrive and achieve their full potential, when the education community gathers for the annual Education Estates® SEND Conference at the Science Gallery, London.

Delegates at Education Estates® SEND Conference on 6th February will have a rare opportunity to meet and hear from speakers who are SEND experts, including representatives from the Department for Education, leading architects and consultants, main contractors, and specialists within the sector.

The discussion will focus on the future of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and delivering a more inclusive education system.

The speakers at this year’s conference will be looking at the provision of dedicated schools and facilities, as well as demonstrating what is possible within mainstream education.

Popular topics, such as how to adapt spaces at lower capital investment and best practice examples of design, will be explored further this year, featuring projects that will be detailed from concept through to delivery, not forgetting the challenges faced along the way! In addition, sessions will delve into integrating sustainability in design and neurodiversity approaches to design.

Delegates will also have the chance to hear from students themselves about the impact design has upon their learning and well-being.

The Conference aims to provide a space for collaborative problem-solving, encouraging delegates to contribute and question the experts in front of them. Speakers will also be looking to offer some easy takeaways that can be simply implemented.

“THOROUGHLY INSIGHTFUL, INSPIRING AND GREAT TO CATCH UP WITH EDUCATION COLLEAGUES AND CLIENTS OLD AND NEW.”

RACHEL MOULTON, REGIONAL

PRACTICE

DIRECTOR AT HKS

ARCHITECTS

LTD.

The full conference programme is yet to be published but such is the interest in this topic that places will once again be limited to one representative per organisation in 2025.

The Education Estates® SEND Conference was born out of the Education Estates® exhibition, conference and awards, held in partnership with the Department for Education, that takes place every year in October in Manchester. Education Estates® comprises seven conference stages, one of the most popular being dedicated to SEND.

This year’s Education Estates® was the biggest and best yet, welcoming 3,689 attendees over two days.

Following the event, Stephen Morgan MP, Minister for Early Education, commented, “I was delighted to attend and address the Education Estates® Conference in Manchester and introduce the DfE Sustainability Award. By working together, we can bring about this Government's vision of an education estate that every community can be proud of.”

The Education Estates® SEND Conference is CPD accredited.

Representatives of the public sector are invited to attend for free, including all those directly employed in schools, colleges, universities, government and local authorities (including independent schools). Private sector representatives can purchase a delegate pass for full access to all conference sessions.

ID

“THE PRESENTERS SHARED GREAT WAYS WE CAN INVEST IN SCHOOL BUILDINGS TO BE GENUINELY MORE INCLUSIVE.  I’LL BE LOOKING TO PUT SOME OF WHAT HAS BEEN SHARED INTO PRACTICE IN ESSEX.”

JOSEPH CHELL, HEAD OF SCHOOL ORGANISATION & PLACE PLANNING AT ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL

Registration is now open! See www.educationestates.com/ education-estates-send-conference for more information and to request your place at the event.

The Education Estates® SEND Conference is sponsored by AtkinsRéalis, Galliford Try, McAvoy, Noviun Architects, Sewell Advisory and Space Zero. SPONSORS

BAG A BOOK!

The Inclusive Housing Design Guide provides guidance on how accessible housing can be designed and built for all - and you can be in with a chance of getting a copy for FREE in our giveaway!

WIN A COPY OF THIS ESSENTIAL HANDBOOK

THE INCLUSIVE HOUSING DESIGN GUIDE is brought to you by Habinteg Housing Association and Centre for Accessible Environments, with publishers the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Author Jacquell Runnalls was supported by peer reviewer Marney Walker, both Specialist Housing Occupational Therapists. The guide aims to address misconceptions about accessible, adaptable, and inclusive housing design and also:

• Dispels common misunderstandings about Building Regulations Part M Volume 1 M4(2) accessible and adaptable dwellings and M4(3) wheelchair user dwellings

• Provides the rationale for exceeding the minimum requirements through insights into how environments impact on disabled and older peoples’ ability to live well in their own homes

• Updates and builds on Habinteg’s Wheelchair Housing Design Guide by providing guidance on how to meet the minimum requirements of the M4(2) Accessible and adaptable standard, with additional considerations for outside space and connectivity to the local neighbourhood

• Provides standalone sections on strategic site layout and communal outside space, M4(2) accessible and adaptable general homes and M4(3) wheelchair user homes

• Presents the rationale for meeting and exceeding the minimum requirements of Building Regulations Part M Volume 1: Dwellings through detailed technical guidance, bespoke scale drawings, case studies, insights and photos. ID

COUNT ME IN!

To be in with a chance head to our LinkedIn page @ inclusive-design-magazine and like and share the pinned post. At 6pm on Tuesday 31st December we’ll make a random choice from those and the lucky person will have a copy of The Inclusive Housing Design Guide winging its way to them! If you are not on LinkedIn please email juliet@inclusive-design. co.uk with ‘The Inclusive Housing Design Guide Book Giveaway’ in the subject line.

The Inclusive Housing Design Guide is available for £40 at https://cae.org.uk/ product/coming-soon-the-inclusive-housing-design-guide/ along with many other publications.

CAE is a leading authority on inclusive design with over 50 years’ experience of access consultancy, research and training.

CAE is a leading authority on inclusive design with over 50 years’ experience of access consultancy, research and training. Our mission is simple: help deliver inclusive environments that, with the help of an access appraisal, can be accessed, used and enjoyed by everyone.

Our mission is simple: help deliver inclusive environments that, with the help of an access appraisal, can be accessed, used and enjoyed by everyone.

Just like we did for the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ five storey, London office, including its kitchen. cae.org.uk

Just like we did for the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ five storey, London office, including its kitchen.

cae.org.uk

THE NEED FOR

SPEED

When the Adaptations Without Delay report highlighted the need for a more proportionate approach to adaptations, Paul Smith, Director of Foundations, saw a way to tackle a key bottleneck; and explains here why he’s excited about the creation of Trusted DFG Assessors.

For years, I’ve witnessed the transformative impact that home adaptations like ramps, stairlifts, and accessible showers can have on people’s lives. These aren’t just structural changes; they’re lifelines, giving individuals the freedom to live safely and independently in their own homes. Yet, too often, the process of getting these adaptations in place is slowed down by long waits for assessments - even in straightforward cases.

That’s why I’m so excited to be launching the Trusted DFG Assessor training programme. This new initiative, developed by Foundations in collaboration with the OT Service, is designed to tackle a key bottleneck in the system: the delays

"THIS PROGRAMME REPRESENTS A MAJOR STEP FORWARD IN SPEEDING UP THE DELIVERY OF ADAPTATIONS”

PAUL SMITH

caused by a lack of capacity to assess DFG applications.

By equipping non-Occupational Therapists (non-OTs) with the skills to assess straightforward cases, this programme represents a major step forward in speeding up the delivery of adaptations, and ultimately, improving lives.

A PROPORTIONATE APPROACH TO ADAPTATIONS

The seeds for this programme were planted in 2019, with the publication of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ Adaptations Without Delay report. Written by Dr. Rachel Russell and colleagues, the report highlighted the need for a more proportionate approach to adaptations.

One of its key findings was that not every case needs the specialist input of a qualified Occupational Therapist. For straightforward situations - such as installing a shower, stairlift, or rampappropriately trained assessors can step in. This allows OTs to focus on the more complex cases where their expertise has the greatest impact.

For me, this insight is the basis of the Trusted DFG Assessor Training Programme. It’s about creating a system that’s not only faster but smarter, making better use of resources while ensuring that everyone gets the support they need.

WHAT THE TRAINING OFFERS

The Trusted DFG Assessor training is about empowering non-OT professionals to confidently assess and recommend solutions for the most common types of DFG applications:

• Bathroom adaptations

• Stairlifts

• Ramps

These three adaptations account for the majority of DFG applications and are typically required by individuals with stable health conditions. By focusing on this highdemand area, we can significantly reduce backlogs and ensure quicker delivery of vital adaptations.

But the training is more than just a technical course. It also equips participants with the judgment to know when a case should be referred back to an OT. Trusted DFG Assessors will work best when they operate under OT supervision, ensuring that quality and consistency remain at the heart of the process.

ALIGNING WITH THE ADAPTATIONS WITHOUT DELAY FRAMEWORK

The Trusted DFG Assessor training is built on the principles outlined in the Adaptations Without Delay framework. This framework

“OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS WILL HAVE THE SPACE TO FOCUS ON COMPLEX CASES WHERE THEIR SKILLS ARE MOST NEEDED”

PAUL SMITH

categorises cases into three levels of intervention:

Universal: Simple solutions that can often be addressed with self-service or retail options.

Targeted: Straightforward cases requiring standard adaptations, which is the focus of Trusted Assessors.

Specialist: Complex cases requiring bespoke solutions and specialist OT input.

By training Trusted Assessors to handle targeted interventions, we can ensure that assessments are proportional to the complexity of each case. This approach reduces delays while maintaining a personcentred focus; something I believe is absolutely critical.

ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES

The Adaptations Without Delay report also highlighted some persistent barriers to timely delivery of adaptations, including:

• Misinterpretations of legislation that unnecessarily require OT involvement in simple cases

• A lack of guidance on differentiating between straightforward and complex situations

• The assumption that all ‘major adaptations’ need specialist assessment Through this programme, we’re tackling these challenges head-on. By providing clear, practical training, we’re empowering participants to handle straightforward cases with confidence while ensuring they understand the boundaries of their role.

WHY THIS MATTERS

I’m often asked why I’m so passionate about this programme. The answer is simple: it’s about people. Every delay in delivering an adaptation represents a missed opportunity to improve someone’s quality of life. It could mean another fall, another hospital admission, or simply another day of unnecessary struggle.

With the Trusted DFG Assessor programme, we’re not just speeding up the process, we’re changing lives. Local authorities will benefit from reduced waiting times and more efficient use of resources. Occupational Therapists will have the space to focus on complex cases where their skills are most needed. And most importantly, individuals and families will get the support they need, when they need it.

LOOKING AHEAD

For me, launching the Trusted DFG Assessor programme is more than a professional milestone, it’s a personal mission. I truly believe this initiative has the potential to transform how we deliver adaptations across the UK.

But we can’t do it alone. If you’re a local authority looking for practical solutions to reduce delays and improve outcomes, I urge you to join our waiting list for the training. Together, we can build a system that works better for everyone, ensuring that no one has to wait longer than necessary for the adaptations they need to live safely and independently.

For more information, contact Foundations today. Let’s make the Trusted DFG Assessor programme a turning point in how we support people to thrive in their homes. Find out more at www.foundations.uk.com/ how-we-help/waiting-list

Image by Freepik.com

A FOREVER HOME?

Hidden among reams of Budget documents, the government has increased the funding for the Disabled Facilities Grant. Holly Holder, Deputy Director for Homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, explains why funding home adaptations and improvements is also funding for a healthier country.

Among the dozens of policy announcements and 170 pages of documentation from last month’s Autumn Statement, there was good news for accessible housing.

Buried deep within the Budget papers, the government announced a £86 million increase to the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) that will support 7,800 more adaptations to homes for those with accessibility needs.

Central government funding for DFGs in England was previously set at £573 million in 2023/24 and to remain at this level in this financial year.

But the previous government announced an additional £102 million as

Above: Living in a suitable home is crucially important to a good later life

“WE KNOW THAT PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE. AND IT IS MORE COST EFFECTIVE TOO”

HOLLY HOLDER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR HOMES AT THE CENTRE FOR AGEING BETTER

a capital top up over two years to increase funding and support for people to adapt or maintain their homes.

This latest increase may not be a seismic or game-changing amount of money considering demand is great. There are more than 600,000 non-decent homes that have a serious category one falls risk.

WELCOME NEWS

But it is welcome news at a time when we know the public finances are severely stretched.

DFGs were introduced in 1989 to provide home adaptations to support older and disabled people on low incomes to live independently and safely in their homes.

When they were introduced, they were just one part of the support available to improve the poorest housing stock.

Now, they are the only grants remaining that local authorities are statutorily obliged to provide and come with fairly stringent eligibility criteria.

The number of DFGs awarded had been steadily growing*, reaching more than 58,000 in 2019/20, but this was then followed by a significant reduction in the number of grants in the following years despite increased funding.

This is in part because of the funding contributed by local authorities has reduced and in part because the value of individual grants given to people have increased.

Our newly-published report Keeping homes safe: a survey of home improvement services across England** shows that DFG funding broadly increases with local need but there are outliers.

Half of the organisations we surveyed receive less than £2m annually in DFG funding and the number of people locally who might need support to adapt their home varies significantly between local authority area.

While the increase in DFG funding is welcome, more is necessary if the growing need is to be met.

RISING DEMAND

There is rising demand for home adaptations as people live for longer and increasing numbers of people live with multiple long-term health conditions or experience reductions in mobility.

The importance and effectiveness of adaptations cannot be understated. Living in a suitable home is crucially important to a good later life.

Good housing and age-friendly environments help people to stay warm, safe and healthy, close to those who make up their social circle, and enable them to do the things that are important to them.

The majority of older people in England live in mainstream housing, but that housing often has small room sizes, steep internal stairs, baths rather than showers, and steps at the front door.

As people get older these become increasingly difficult to manage, with increasing long-term conditions and disabilities impacting on day-to-day activities within the home.

MAINTAIN INDEPENDENCE

Adapting the home can increase the usability of the home environment and enable the majority of people to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

This is important for reducing the risk of falls and other accidents, which ultimately can relieve pressures on accident and

“THE £86M INCREASE TO THE DFG WILL SUPPORT 7,800 MORE ADAPTATIONS TO HOMES FOR THOSE WITH ACCESSIBILITY NEEDS”

HOLLY HOLDER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR HOMES AT THE CENTRE FOR AGEING BETTER

Above: While the increase in DFG funding is welcome, more is necessary if the growing need is to be met

emergency services, speed hospital discharge, and reduce the need for residential care.

Even with public finances being as tight as they are, this government would reap the financial benefits if they went further in supporting more adaptations and home improvement and help meet their mission of building an NHS fit for the future.

Key to helping sustain the current model for the NHS is managing demand. Improving the homes that pose a real and direct threat to people’s health is key to reducing demand.

Removing the category one hazard of falls on stairs and falls on the level would save the NHS more than £320 million a year and £2 billion a year in wider costs to society.

We know that prevention is better than cure. And it is more cost effective too. Every £1 spent on home improvements to reduce falls lead to £7.50 worth of savings for the health and care sector.

But beyond the cost savings, it would mean hundreds of thousands fewer trips to A&E every year.

REDUCED PRESSURES

That means reduced pressures on overworked staff in the NHS and it also means hundreds of thousands of fewer older people in pain, anxiously awaiting treatment, and the subsequent impact it has on loss of confidence and sense of independence.

Of course, adaptations are only one solution to ensuring the delivery of the sufficient number of homes that we can age well within.

We should also be building considerably more accessible homes. Very little attractive, affordable housing has been built in the right locations to enable people to move to properties that are more accessible should the need arise.

This government has ambitious house building targets. But it won’t mean much to hit those targets if we’re not building the right kind of homes which are suited to people of all ages.

Above: Finding the right home is especially difficult for those who find it hard to move around their homes

“WE SHOULD BE BUILDING CONSIDERABLY MORE ACCESSIBLE HOMES”

HOLLY HOLDER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR HOMES AT THE CENTRE FOR AGEING BETTER

ABOUT THE CENTRE FOR AGEING BETTER

The Centre for Ageing Better is tackling inequalities in ageing.

We are working to make our workplaces, homes and communities inclusive of older people, as well as building an Age-friendly Movement so that society sees ageing in a more positive and realistic way.

Get it right and more of us can experience good health, financial security, and be treated fairly and with respect as we grow older.

Visit https://ageing-better.org.uk/ for more details.

The previous government initiated steps to raise the minimum standards of accessibility for new build homes. This government should finish the job.

Also known as age-friendly or lifetime housing, ensuring the higher Category 2 becomes the standard would mean no steps between the pavement and the main entrance, more space to move around in all areas of the home, and deliver homes with features that are easily adaptable to improve accessibility in the future as needed.

A GROWING CHALLENGE

Finding the right home in the right location at the right price is a growing challenge for everyone, and it’s why the government has made housing and planning reform a key first year priority.

But finding the right home is especially difficult for millions of people who find it hard to move around their homes or use a wheelchair some of the time, when so few homes are designed and built with them in mind.

Raising the minimum accessibility standards would over time increase the supply of homes that are suitable to all, meeting accessibility needs of the majority and with the capacity for further adaptation, including walls strong enough to install grab rails, hidden floor gulleys to allow the easy installation of walk-in showers, and staircases wide enough to allow a stairlift.

Ultimately a good accessible home is good for our health and the health of the nation. ID

FOOTNOTES: * https://ageing-better.org.uk/resources/lost-opportunities-decadedeclining-national-investment-repairing-our-homes ** https://ageing-better.org.uk/resources/keeping-homes-safehome-improvement-services

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TRY BEFORE YOU BUY!

A catastrophic injury patient will often soon realise that their current home is not going to be suitable for them. Ben Townsend, Head of Personal Injury Leeds at law firm Stewarts, examines what factors a catastrophically injured person should consider if their home no longer meets their needs after their accident.

What should you do if your home is no longer suitable after you have been catastrophically injured?

Depending upon their injuries, the patient may face a prolonged period in hospital. The nature of their injuries and their long-term prognosis may not be apparent at the outset, but the need to move will be.

If they have a compensation claim, they may be able to include the purchase of alternative, adapted accommodation as part of their claim. However, what should they do about their accommodation if they are discharged from hospital within a few months of receiving their injury?

When an injured person has a claim, it is important at an early stage to instruct a specialist solicitor who has experience of guiding injured people through accommodation issues. If the injured person does so, the solicitor can immediately start assembling the evidence required to justify the move to new accommodation.

They can also begin discussions about the strategy and funding of new accommodation with the defendant’s insurance company.

If the injured person requires a new property, they will often consider purchasing. There are three main advantages to purchasing accommodation:

• More properties to choose from.

• Long-term certainty that the purchased property will be available to the injured person for the rest of their life.

• Freedom to adapt and alter the property, subject to planning permission and building regulations.

“RENTING CAN BE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE INJURED PERSON TO EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT…”

BEN TOWNSEND

However, purchasing and adapting accommodation can be a long process. Among the steps that need to be taken are:

• Identifying an appropriate property to purchase.

• Obtaining confirmation from the rehabilitation team that the property meets the injured person’s needs.

• Making an offer on the property and negotiating the purchase.

• Going through the conveyancing process to complete the purchase.

• Appointing a project manager to adapt the property.

• Agreeing a scheme for adapting the property.

• Tendering for a builder.

• Completing the adaptation works. Even without complications in relation to securing money for the purchase and adaptation, this is still a long process. It can easily take more than a year, even though some of these steps will overlap. This sort of delay is often impractical for somebody waiting to be discharged from hospital.

LONG-TERM NEEDS

The long-term needs of an injured person may not be sufficiently clear at an early stage to commit to the design and purchase of accommodation to last them a lifetime. For instance, before an injured person has experience of living in the community, it may be unclear whether their accommodation ought to allow space for two waking support workers to

be present at night or one waking and one sleeping support worker (the latter requiring a room in which to sleep).

A possible short-term solution is a temporary modular adapted pod. These pods attach to an injured person’s existing property and offer one or two extra rooms. However, even if the property footprint contains space for a modular pod, they are unlikely to be suitable for catastrophically injured people as the remainder of their house will remain inaccessible to them. The rest of their property is unlikely to be suitable, even if it is adapted.

Often, a sensible intermediate step is for the injured person to move into rented accommodation directly from hospital. A six-month lease on a rented property is less of a commitment than purchasing and adapting a new property and can allow time for the injured person's long-term prognosis to become apparent.

RECOVERABLE EXPENSES

Rented accommodation may sometimes have adaptations for wheelchair users, but will often need basic adaptation. This expense will probably be recoverable as part of a compensation claim in addition to the cost of buying a property.

For instance, a tracking hoist may need to be installed, but some landlords will be unwilling to allow work on their property. A landlord may however be sympathetic to having that work done with a payment of six or 12 months of rent up front and a commitment to reinstate the property to its former condition after the injured person has left.

The injured person will probably have to compromise when renting a property, but that does not mean renting is a cul-de-sac for them. Renting can be an opportunity for the injured person to experiment with different equipment: they can then decide which items of equipment work for them and, therefore, the items their new accommodation needs to fit.

The experience of living in rented accommodation can inform decisions around choosing the property they will ultimately be looking to purchase and how it will be adapted. It can provide the time they need to consider the property they want to buy without undue time pressure.

FOCUS YOUR MIND

Renting also helps to focus their mind on the things they can compromise on in their permanent accommodation and the features they simply cannot live without. It can be part of reintroducing them to making choices about their future when they may feel a large number of choices have been taken away from them by their injuries. For instance, an injured person

“THE LONG-TERM NEEDS OF AN INJURED PERSON MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENTLY CLEAR AT AN EARLY STAGE TO COMMIT TO THE DESIGN AND PURCHASE OF ACCOMMODATION TO LAST THEM A LIFETIME”

BEN TOWNSEND

Above: The experience of living in rented accommodation can inform decisions around choosing the property they will ultimately be looking to purchase and how it will be adapted

may learn that they require access to a hydrotherapy pool at their property (see the Innova feature on searching for hydrotherapy pools on page 10).

The experience of the injured person and those supporting and rehabilitating them may also provide significant evidence about their accommodation needs for the future.

In most compensation claims for catastrophically injured people, a period in rented accommodation may not just be a temporary stopgap. It may be an important staging post on the road to finding suitable accommodation that will last them for the rest of their life.

ID

You can contact Ben for advice at btownsend@stewartslaw.com

FUTURE PERFECT?

As the Older People’s Housing Taskforce report is published, Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, says we must urgently address the huge shortage of suitable homes for older people in our country.

Improving the options for older people would have major benefits for the provision of housing overall, as well as for the NHS, social care - and, of course, for older people themselves.

In a new policy briefing on Housing for Older People, Age UK points out that our failure to provide good quality, adaptable and accessible housing for an ageing population is storing up financial and social problems for the future.

The Charity is calling on policymakers to ensure the Government’s housing strategy really incorporates the needs of an ageing population.

This briefing is being published at the same time as the long-awaited Older People’s Housing Taskforce report, on which Age UK was pleased to have been represented.

Age UK’s policy briefing observes that:

• Over 90% of older people live in general mainstream homes and the quality of their housing is central to their experience of ageing (1)

• Households headed by someone over the age of 65 are forecast to account for 84% of the growth in households between 2018 and 2043, and we already have a huge shortage of homes that are suitable for an ageing population(2)

• There have been lots of attempts to quantify the financial cost of a decent, stable, accessible home and a good environment. One aspect of cost saving that isn’t often discussed is the extent to which good housing sustains unpaid care. It is much easier to help a family member or friend with the odd task once a day, than go morning and evening to help someone get in and out of a bath, climb stairs and cook meals. The value of unpaid care is estimated at £162bn per annum(3)

• In some areas, substantial investment is needed but there is also much that can be done without significant extra cost. The Government’s plans to reform the sector and build 1.5 million homes must embed the needs of older people so that opportunities are not missed.

Political and policy discussion about older people’s housing is often limited to providing more specialist retirement housing and encouraging more people to downsize, and both definitely have a part to play. In particular, we need more specialist housing that older people on low and modest incomes can afford, but the vast majority need - and want - general mainstream housing. However, a decision to downsize or right size is much more complicated than is often assumed.

Contrary to much commentary, a substantial proportion of the older population already moves home and getting more to do so is challenging:

• Downsizing often releases less equity than people imagine. 80% of older people already live in homes with three beds or fewer and if affordable an extra bedroom can be useful, offering a room for a couple to sleep separately, for working, a carer, lodger or to have friends and family to stay.

“ONLY 9% OF HOMES HAVE THE FOUR FEATURES THAT ALLOW A WHEELCHAIR TO JUST VISIT, NOT ACTUALLY LIVE IN A HOME”

• Size is not necessarily the issue and incentivising downsizing is difficult. We may be able to encourage more people to move if we offer an attractive choice of suitable homes. For many there are clear trigger points, such as bereavement or illness.

• However, substantial numbers are moving anyway, and it is not a straight-forward decision.

• Many will choose, rightly given their individual circumstances, to ‘age in place’.

The Charity says that we need a broad strategy as regards housing for older people, one which factors in the full health needs and lifestyle choices of our growing and increasingly diverse older population. Solutions for new build housing recommended in Age UK’s policy briefing include:

• Local plans should be supplemented with clear guidance on how councils will specifically meet the needs of an ageing population, reflecting the full range of health and lifestyle needs identified in the glossary definition.

• Plans should be responding to more detailed analysis of what categories of housing older people need within the mainstream sector looking, for example, at provision for older renters and the large number of people moving home between the ages of 50 and 70.

• All new homes should be built to the higher accessibility standards of Part M4 Category 2. We have a huge shortage of accessible homes and need new build to address this shortage. We can’t second guess where an older person will live and match a certain number of accessible homes with those who need them. Optional standards

haven’t produced the number of accessible homes we need. Only 31.5% of new homes to be built in England 2020-2030 under the current system will meet accessibility standards which provide basic features such as a wall strong enough for a grab rail or plumbing which allows a walk-in shower rather than a bath(4). Accessibility statistics for our existing stock have been well aired - only 9% of homes have the four features that allow a wheelchair to just visit, not actually live in a home(5). Much of our existing housing stock has steep narrow staircases, bedrooms on an upper floor, baths to climb in and out of and steps up to a front door. For those struggling to find a home they can afford, the shortage of accessible housing creates an additional challenge. Higher accessibility standards have to be mandatory to start to address this shortage.

• We need to embed inclusive design. Case notes from the Age UK information and advice line show older people struggling with features of a home which could have been designed differently at no additional cost. One recent example involved an older person whose housing association kitchen had been refurbished but she was unable to reach the new cupboards; another, with a new bathroom found her walker slipped on the tiles.

• Planning reforms must remove the barriers holding back growth in the specialist housing sector providing, for example, a clearer methodology for assessing

“OUR FAILURE TO PROVIDE GOOD QUALITY, ADAPTABLE AND ACCESSIBLE HOUSING FOR AN AGEING POPULATION IS STORING UP FINANCIAL AND SOCIAL PROBLEMS FOR THE FUTURE"

need, guidance on use classes and viability, more site allocation and greater awareness of the wider benefits.

Solutions Age UK recommends for existing housing stock and wider strategy include:

• The wording on accessibility in renovation in the Decent Homes Standard should be strengthened. The wording has to be practical but also ensure that we make efficient use of money that is already being spent to address the current shortage of age friendly homes. It should also consider inclusive design.

• We need to do more to encourage people to think ahead, looking at age friendly features as they renovate. This might require changes to VAT or other incentives. Interestingly, over half of the £623m DFG annual budget is spent on replacing baths with showers(6). Age friendly design would reduce the need for expensive adaptations.

• We need to make better use of the Disabled Facilities Grant budget, ensuring that all local authorities administer it efficiently and effectively, learning from the best.

• The new portal proposed as part of rental reforms must help to increase the number of older renters living in suitable homes and getting the adaptations they need.

• We need to spread best practice. There are for example, good Home Improvement

"FOR THOSE STRUGGLING TO FIND A HOME THEY CAN AFFORD, THE SHORTAGE OF ACCESSIBLE HOUSING CREATES AN ADDITIONAL CHALLENGE"

Agencies in some areas, local authorities using innovative financing options to fund repairs for those on lower incomes, and pockets of good information and advice about housing options.

• Enforcement teams in local authorities must be properly resourced.

• We need to address the issues raised in a recent APPG report into the regeneration of existing sheltered housing and follow its recommendations: https://www. housinglin.org.uk/_assets/Resources/ Housing/Support_materials/Reports/ HLIN_APPG-HCOP_Re-HAPPI.pdf

Scan the QR code to read the Older People’s Housing Taskforce report

“I warmly welcome the publication of the Older People’s Housing Taskforce’s report and was delighted to have been one of its members. If we can get it right on older people’s housing then there will be big spin-offs for the NHS, social care, the availability of housing overall and, of course, for older people themselves.

“However, it’s not just about ‘downsizing’ and moving into so-called retirement housing, since most older people want to stay where they are or choose to move into other mainstream accommodation.

“With our growing older population, this means we need to ensure that all the new homes that are built are designed in ways that can flex to meet people’s needs as they age, and that aids and adaptations are readily available to make life easier for older people living in our existing housing stock - whether they are home owners or renters.

“There’s a lot to do to improve older people’s housing and the options on offer to them, especially for those on low and modest incomes. The Taskforce’s report sets out a comprehensive list of recommendations, by no means all of which cost a mint, many of which are reflected in Age UK’s own policy briefing.

“Some of the most important barriers are attitudinal rather than financial: there’s a clear need for policymakers to take older people’s housing needs far more seriously than has often been the case to date, and everyone stands to gain if this happens.”

CAROLINE ABRAHAMS, CHARITY DIRECTOR AT AGE UK.

https://www.habinteg.org.uk/localplans/ (5) https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/ media/5f044f27e90e075c53dfcf01/2018-19_EHS_Adaptations_and_ Accessability_Fact_Sheet.pdf

(6) https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/ media/5c0e443440f0b60c2c1c78b7/DFG_Review_2018_Summary.pdf

BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

With around 9.3% of workers in the construction industry declaring a disability, the fast-paced, high-pressured nature of the job can prove challenging. This is where assistive technology (AT) can increasingly play a role in transforming professional development and supporting a broader, more diverse workforce to thrive. Jade Hegarty of BATA (British Assistive Technology Association) explains how AT is rebuilding the construction industry for disabled workers.

The construction sector is rigorous and ever-evolving, with a requirement on workers to ensure they stay up-to-date with technical concepts, safety standards, and compliance regulations. Inclusion in the workplace goes beyond simply hiring diverse candidates; it requires creating an environment where all individuals can learn, grow, and contribute fully.

Accessible tools not only open doors for disabled workers but also enhance job satisfaction and retention. With AT, construction companies are moving closer to building an industry where more workers have an equal opportunity to succeed.

For Emily Worthington of ReadSpeaker, using AT to help level the learning and development playing field for construction industry employees is a nobrainer. “When we remove obstacles and provide materials that everyone can use, we create a space where all employees can participate, and highlight their skills, while companies retain their best talent,” she said. “It’s a win-win situation!”

ReadSpeaker has been supporting Constructiv, a provider of construction training in Europe, through their education partner platform, assessmentQ, which enables construction workers to hear exam questions through text-to-speech technology. This allows them to focus on demonstrating their technical knowledge rather than struggling with the format of the questions, and has empowered workers to complete assessments more confidently and accurately, reducing anxiety and boosting performance.

"ACCESSIBLE TOOLS NOT ONLY OPEN DOORS FOR DISABLED WORKERS BUT ALSO ENHANCE JOB SATISFACTION AND RETENTION"

JADE HEGARTY, BATA

A SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT

This approach illustrates how a simple adaptation - audio options for reading text - can have a substantial impact on learning outcomes. Workers who may previously have felt marginalised or disadvantaged in training scenarios are now better positioned to advance in their careers.

The benefits of assistive technology are not only relevant to training rooms, they also extend to day-to-day operations on worksites.

Mitali Kamat is a lead researcher on assistive technologies specifically for blind and low vision users in the workplace. She contributed her expertise to a report by The Institute for Human Centered Design, which highlights several technologies making architecture workflows more accessible.

The report explains that anyone with sight or cognitive disabilities can struggle with complex visuals, plans, and blueprints, but assistive technologies that provide digital, customisable blueprints and visual aids are beginning to make architecture more accessible. For example, augmented reality (AR) applications can project digital overlays onto physical spaces, helping workers visualise design plans in real-time and better understand spatial relationships without relying solely on traditional blueprints.

CUSTOMISE DISPLAYS

“Such technologies can also assist workers who experience visual processing delays or struggle with interpreting 2D plans,” explained Mitali. “Workers can engage with 3D models that allow them to manipulate and explore the design from multiple angles, making the information more

comprehensible. Digital blueprints with adjustable zoom, contrast, and colour filters can support workers with visual impairments by allowing them to customise displays to suit their needs.

“This functionality enables workers who may previously have felt sidelined by standard visual formats to engage fully in project design and implementation.”

Voice-activated tools are also particularly useful for workers with mobility limitations, allowing them to operate machinery, record measurements, or make notes hands-free.

AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE CULTURE

Similarly, speech-to-text applications enable workers to document their observations verbally, converting them into written notes that can be shared and archived. This is invaluable for those who struggle with traditional, text-based documentation or workers with disabilities affecting fine motor skills. By simply speaking into their devices, workers can capture detailed, accurate notes on site, enhancing both safety and workflow efficiency.

“This functionality also provides an additional layer of safety, as workers can focus on their tasks without needing to break concentration to write down information manually,” Mitali added.

By integrating assistive technology, the construction industry can benefit from a more inclusive workplace culture. When employers provide AT for improved accessibility, they not only support disabled

“VOICE-ACTIVATED TOOLS ARE ALSO PARTICULARLY USEFUL FOR WORKERS WITH MOBILITY LIMITATIONS"

MITALI KAMAT, RESEARCHER

workers but create a work environment where all employees feel empowered to participate. This fosters a sense of belonging and encourages more diverse and skilled talent to enter and remain in the industry.

A STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE

Inclusivity is not just an ethical imperative; it’s a strategic advantage. Construction and architecture companies that embrace accessibility through assistive technology are better equipped to attract and retain talented workers from a variety of backgrounds. As these technologies continue to evolve, the potential for a more inclusive and effective workforce grows.

Companies that prioritise accessibility signal to employees that they are valued, regardless of their individual challenges.

The construction and architecture industries are just at the beginning of a transformative journey toward inclusivity. By adopting assistive technology across both training and daily operations, these sectors are taking steps to ensure that all workers have the tools to succeed. This is in line with the broader inclusive design movement, which emphasises the importance of creating environments that work for everyone.

We’re only beginning to unlock the potential of assistive technology in the construction industry, but the foundation for a more inclusive future is firmly in place. Find out more at https://bataonline.org

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

ID

ON THE LEVEL

Many of us ponder why so few developers build accessible homes, but Allan Craigen of 1 Level put his thoughts into action; he is currently constructing three aspirational, thoughtfully designed, wheelchair accessible bungalows in a village in Lancashire.

Inclusive Design

Magazine spoke to Allan about his plans, and how they came about…

ID: What made you decide to build your development as accessible homes?

Allan: I can’t honestly say or remember what or when the ‘turning point’ or ‘light bulb’ moment was to decide on building the development of accessible homes. It was definitely going to be bungalows, due to the nationwide shortage of them. I think I felt that with bungalows being only one level and no steps, there could be additional features installed at new build stage to appeal to many others, and by adding wider doors and a few other changes, they can then be homes suitable for wheelchair users.

It didn’t seem a problem to do this in a new build house, and then it opened up another area of demand. Bungalows are not a favourite model for many developers because of the £m2 return for their footprint compared to two storey properties.

ID: Have you had experience of buying or renting an accessible home, and what were the main issues with this?

Allan: I had a mother and mother-in-law, both of whom had to leave their three bed houses due partial immobility and a brain haemorrhage; we had to find single storey accommodation for them both. We were very fortunate to find a bungalow for my mother-in-law and ground floor apartment within a local sheltered accommodation

"ESTATE AGENTS IN GENERAL DON’T SEEM TO BE AWARE OF THE ACCESSIBLE SPECIFICS OTHER THAN OBVIOUS STEPPED ACCESS AND ‘TURNING CIRCLE’”

ALLAN CRAIGEN, 1 LEVEL

development for my mother.

There were very few options available at the time and close by.

My mother-in-law suffered a stroke and became a wheelchair user a few years later. Again, very fortunately we managed to find her a place (of very few accessible rooms within a 10-mile radius) in a residential home with suitable facilities.

ID: What buildings inspired you in the design of your development?

Allan: I wouldn’t say it was a specific building that inspired me for the external design on this development as most of the suitable accessible bungalows I looked at were a pretty standard design and anything too modern wouldn’t fit in with the local area and the planners.

The new edition of The Inclusive Housing Design Guide by Jacquel Runnalls has updated some features of the previous editions and sets out inclusive design recommendations perfectly.

The external design was basically to fit in with surrounding properties in an area of predominantly terraced/townhouse properties, although there is a nice 90s development of HA bungalows opposite the site.

The size of the properties had to be of a generous footprint compared to other new build comparisons I looked at and because of the plot sizes but with a straightforward design (with some extra touches) so as to ensure planning approval.

Internally, the design changed a few times to allow for the accessible recommendations (and for my lack of inclusive/accessible design experience). My initial experience with Architects on the development wasn’t a success, so on my third Architect I wasn’t going to waste time and money leaving the interior for him to design; I basically sent him a scale floor plan and told him ‘this is the layout I want’ and from there I revised, updated and improved the layouts.

I also wanted to include some small features from my own experience of building properties that may be deemed by some as ‘extra’ or ‘too costly’ or more than just ‘commercial quality’. They were to be different to other new bungalow properties of a similar size but without looking like they had been built specifically for accessibility, plus with additional energy features.

I did want to fit in a utility room but I just couldn’t get the layout and dimensions to work within the building footprint.

I have a pet hate of seeing washing machines in a run of kitchen units, so as a compromise and with the help from Adam Thomas and Moorgate Kitchens (who both work with Symphony Kitchens), we have designed the kitchens to have a built-in tall ‘laundry’ cupboard to fit a washing machine (at a raised level above the floor, so it’s easier to access the door) and also room to fit an adjacent tumble drier if required, or additional laundry facilities.

There will be an easy pull-down rail above the washing machine for pre-iron laundry or internal clothes airing facility. All are within the units behind closed cupboard doors and out of sight.

Bathrooms were to be accessible but not look like a hospital bathrooms like some I have seen, they were to be as luxurious as you will find in decent hotels and where, not only would they have enough room for manoeuvring to carry out the essentials, but to feel good and love the room.

I even had help from Adam Thomas on spacings and movement on/off and around the toilet but also more

Above: The external design needed to fit in with surrounding properties

Below: The kitchens were designed with the help from Adam Thomas and Moorgate Kitchens (who both work with Symphony Kitchens)

importantly and something not mentioned within the Inclusive Design Guide, somewhere within easy reach of the toilet whilst sat on it to store other necessities like wipes, small towels, tissues etc. Check out the bathroom CGI on the website and you will see Adam’s influence in there next to the toilet!

I also wanted minimum 2.5m high ceilings, and higher and wider windows to let in more natural light, which I feel is very important for one’s well-being. Not only does it save on energy use by not having to switch lights on during the day but also natural light gives everyone a boost.

"IF THE GOVERNMENT CAN INTRODUCE A LEGALLY BINDING POLICY OF A NET ZERO CARBON TARGET, IT WOULD SEEM PRETTY SIMPLE FOR IT TO INTRODUCE THE MINIMUM BASICS OF INCLUSIVE ACCESSIBLE FEATURES WITHIN NEW BUILD HOMES”

ALLAN CRAIGEN, 1 LEVEL

A sliding pocket door from the hall into the kitchen/lounge area makes the end of the hall look more open plan, but can also be closed if necessary; and you don’t have the door leaf projecting into the kitchen as an obstruction to anyone sitting at the breakfast bar.

The side doors to each house were a later afterthought that cost six months delay and a further planning application fee, but I felt they were necessary for a couple of reasons.

They provide another option and easier access from the parking area rather than using just the front door, but also another option to access the garden rather than the bi-fold door should someone be watching TV or otherwise using the lounge area. They were also another form of introducing more natural light into the room with a 1m wide glazed door.

As I have become older myself, my views, opinions, and requirements in a home have changed. I now get a lot of satisfaction just watching wild birds come to use our bird feeder, looking into a nice garden, and to be able to go into that garden without having to make it a big deal.

I always liked a nice garden over the years but never really appreciated and enjoyed it as much as I do now. I have put a bit of thought into the gardens on this development and they will be accessible and with some great plants and enjoyable features rather than the usual big lawn and boring border planting.

Sitting on my sofa watching TV then noticing a fox or squirrel pass by my

bi-fold door or low sill window suddenly makes the door or window become a second TV screen and viewable without having to move! Some of these practical features only seem to come from experience.

ID: Do you think that the legislation for accessibility in buildings has set too low a bar?

Allan: Researching accessible homes really brought home to me the massive need for these types of property.

The more I looked into accessible homes (or lack of them) I kept thinking that at the very least, basic accessible features should be integral to the construction of all new build properties (especially bungalows).

Not only is it the right thing to do and the basic requirements at new build stage means the cost is nominal to the overall build.

If the government can introduce a legally binding policy of a net zero carbon target which clearly involves the construction industry, it would seem pretty simple for it to introduce the minimum basics of inclusive accessible features within new build homes [Editor’s note - YES!].

I am quite sure Jacquel Runnalls can provide the government with the necessary very basic specifications very easily indeed but without too great a

culture shock to give the housebuilding industry a coronary. It won’t solve every accessible problem but it will help reduce the current shortfall.

In my opinion, these need to be discussed with the building industry at once and introduced without delay and especially PRIOR to the proposed new building spree promised by the new government, otherwise, it will be within the next Governments watch before it can be implemented on site.

Government funding is probably the only way to build affordable inclusive homes in any volume because the private sector won’t do it in great numbers (unless via legislation) to solve the rental accessible home market crisis, especially affordable accessible homes for people on medium to low incomes who can’t afford to buy an accessible home.

Maybe they should look at introducing a new grant system or Help to Buy scheme specifically for buyers of new build homes that have accessible design built in and these grants can be claimed by the housebuilder if they meet the inclusive design criteria? Something similar to the renewable energy grants schemes, but applicable for new build Inclusive Design.

Grants could be controlled by an Inclusive Design Body and/or an Inclusive Design Building Control team who work with the respective Building Control on developments to ensure inclusive compliance prior to grant approval.

ID: Is accessibility often wrongly seen as an addon rather than an essential element of any good building design?

Allan: Yes, in my opinion. However, I am a novice at accessibility prior to the past 5-6 years, I didn’t think much about it before then and I am sure a lot of developers will think the same about accessibility within building design.

Those who may have looked at it will probably see it as an expensive add on (with some exceptions) but also the general Estate Agent selling side is pretty ignorant about it (again with a few exceptions) and are not trained to handle it very well.

The easy part for me at the moment seems to be the design, getting accessible projects across to older or disabled people is harder. Estate Agents in general don’t seem to be aware of the accessible specifics other than obvious stepped access and ‘turning circle’. I have looked at ‘accessible home’ for sale on some agents advertised websites and they are a bit of a joke and some totally misleading. That is why I have decided to market my development myself.

I can see it from both sides of the coin. Housebuilders won’t build accessible homes if there is a much smaller return than the current house types within each development and if the overall building footprint has to increase to accommodate accessibility, prices will reflect this and is

Above: Allan wanted to fit in a utility room but couldn’t get the layout and dimensions to work within the building footprint Below left: The gardens will be accessible and have some great plants and enjoyable features

"WHEN [COMPETITORS] START FEATURING INCLUSIVE ACCESSIBLE DESIGN AND ENHANCE THEIR DEVELOPMENTS THEN OTHERS WILL FOLLOW”

ALLAN

CRAIGEN, 1 LEVEL

there a big enough market out there? They are not a charity, they have to answer to shareholders and make a profit.

I also feel there needs to be improved direct and constant contact with all developers and builders about inclusive design. Not every developer and builder engages in accessibility forums online, they may not get the chance to attend inclusivity seminars, and the message about inclusive design within trade magazines and professional journals may not reach all of them.

It’s no good people slating developers and builders online about their lack of addressing accessible features either. When competition starts featuring inclusive accessible design more and has enhanced their specific developments plus gained more awareness in terms of publicity and sales enquiries then the others will eventually follow – FOMO will set in! It’s happening with renewable energy now.

New students studying Architecture need inclusive design included within their standard Architectural courses and ASAP, eventually they won’t know any other way but to think about inclusive design. Have a quick look online and the initial results are pretty poor for available Inclusive Design courses in the UK.

I think it is a narrow viewpoint to say that inclusive design becoming the norm has to be led from massive government project investment or the major housebuilders. Thinking and building big doesn’t always solve the problem 30+ years down the line.

Perhaps there just needs to be a bit more of blue sky thinking on convincing the building industry of the benefits of inclusive design?

SAY HELLO, WAVE GOODBYE

Well, hello!

As I write we’re tying up this Nov/ Dec issue, which closes 2024. And what a year - we’ve got this niche magazine properly launched, and it’s making quite a splash! Whilst looking back with pride on our first twelve months, we’re busy looking forward to the future.

With more readers joining us every month our circulation is building a strong foundation, and our advertisers are really appreciating that.

We’re forging strong links with the numerous conferences and events relevant to this sector, and hope to have a stand at several in 2025 so we can meet more readers face-to-face.

And we love putting together great editorial that places our readers right in the heart of what we do - Forums, Week in the Life, In My Opinion, The Last Word - get in touch if you want to be a part of this.

So here’s wishing you a peaceful Christmas, and a happy and healthy New Year!

The Inclusive Design Magazine Team

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