![]() ![]() One of the key factors as to whether it is reasonable to make a particular adjustment will be the cost of so doing in relation to the resources of the church. This might include special software to allow use of a computer by a visually impaired administrator. For employees, where a disabled person would be put at a substantial disadvantage compared to someone who is not disabled without the provision of an auxiliary aid, then reasonable steps must be taken to provide that aid. This might include such things as providing a ramp to allow wheelchair users to gain access to premises otherwise reached by steps, widening an entrance or providing a handrail.ģ. Where a physical feature puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage compared to people who are not disabled, then reasonable steps must be taken to remove, alter or ensure users can avoid it. This might include such things as large print hymn books and notice sheets, people available to help someone from a car or into or around a building, and so on.Ģ. In other words, this is about how things are done or how information is supplied. ![]() ![]() Where the way that things are done puts a person with disabilities at a substantial disadvantage to people who are not disabled, then reasonable steps should be taken to avoid the disadvantage. The Equality Act sets out three core responsibilities or requirements in relation to those with disabilities:ġ. However, churches should aspire to full equality where everyone enters by the front door both physically and metaphorically. The requirement of the Equality Act is to make ‘reasonable’ adjustments and, for example, providing disabled access via a rear entrance would meet the requirements of the Act. All are covered by the requirements of accessibility. Most churches have wider activities, whether organised by themselves or by other organisations, eg activities for groups (perhaps in a church hall), concerts, education, etc. This is a service which it provides for all people. In addition to those who are covered by the legal definition, in order to embrace the concept of access for all, churches should consider others who may have difficulty in accessing certain facilities or services, for example: pregnant women those particularly large or small in stature (including children) parents or others in charge of small children those suffering mental ill-health and those with injuries.Ī church’s duty in respect of people with disabilitesĪ church’s primary purpose is for worship. Some, but not all, mobility problems are easy to see but consider also those who have poor strength or dexterity have learning difficulties have impaired vision or hearing those with dementia those on the autistic spectrum or those who have any illness or health condition which affects day to day living. It is important to think broadly do not make assumptions and consider those with less obvious disabilities. ‘Long term’ means having lasted or is likely to last more than 12 months.Īnyone who has a disability, or who is associated with a disabled person, or who is mistakenly perceived as being disabled is protected by the legislation. The United Reformed Church aspires to go beyond this and ‘intends in spirit and in deed to promote equality of opportunity and diversity in all spheres of its activity’.ĭisability is defined as ‘a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on the ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities’. Making everyone welcomeĮqualities legislation means that all churches should make provision for people with disabilities. The United Reformed Church’s free guide to welcoming people with disabilities to your church or place of worship. ![]()
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