Possible ways to make buildings accessible
When you use a wheelchair or have a different physical disability, this can sometimes present problems in connection with the accessibility of the buildings at your educational institution. This might be because there is no lift, for instance, because of raised thresholds or kerbs you cannot cross or because of poor signage. Various adjustments are possible that may improve the accessibility of such buildings.
Your educational institution is responsible for the accessibility of its buildings. Which of the accommodations you need are already present? And which ones are still lacking? It can be a good idea to look into this before you start your degree programme. Sometimes, a building is outdated and has not yet been adjusted for accessibility.
Accommodation schemes
Nationwide schemes
(Standard for building accessibility set out in the Equal Treatment (Disability and Chronic Illness) Act, (Wgbh/cz))
On 1 January 2017, an addition to the Equal Treatment (Disability and Chronic Illness) Act (Wgbh/cz) entered into force that requires that all public buildings be accessible to people with a disability or impairment. The Act also requires that simple adjustments be made to buildings to ensure they are accessible to people with a disability or impairment. Lifts, ramps and accessible toilets are examples of such adjustments. These accommodations are standard in all newly constructed school buildings. Older buildings used by educational institutions must be adjusted to accommodate wheelchair users.
Schemes provided by educational institutions
Your educational institution is responsible for the accessibility of the building. Which of the accommodations you need are already present? And which ones are still lacking? Be sure to check this before starting your degree programme. Sometimes, a building is outdated and has not yet been adjusted for accessibility.
- Are there no lifts? Discuss the possibility of installing a stair lift. Is this not possible? In that case, you can request that your timetable be changed so you can attend all your lectures in a building that is accessible to you.
- Are there no ramps? Discuss the possibility of a portable ramp.
- Are there no accessible toilets? Discuss whether a portable accessible toilet can be arranged as a temporary solution.
- Are there raised thresholds or kerbs? Discuss whether these might be removed.
- Are the entryways too high? It might be possible to arrange for these to be lowered.
Have a look at the other facilities, accommodations or schemes that might be helpful for you, too.
Tips for accessible accommodations
Check the accessibility of an educational institution
You can visit an institution on an Open Day to see how accessible it is. Before you enrol in a degree programme, you should check to see how accessible the building is for you and which accommodations are and are not yet present.
Who should you talk to if you have questions about adjustments to the accommodations at your educational institution?
- Educational institutions often employ specific people who are responsible for the buildings. They are usually referred to as a concierge, caretaker or member of facility services staff. Try to get in touch with this person if you have questions about the building or adjustments to it. If that individual is unable to help you further, ask them to direct you to the person in charge of this area.
- If your lecture hall or building is not accessible or has not been adjusted to meet your special needs, you are entitled to request these adjustments via your study adviser.
- Ask whether it is possible to view the lesson online if you are unable to attend in person.
In what other ways can the educational institution help you?
- Your educational institution might also be able to help by adjusting your timetable so that you only need to enter the accessible portions of the institution.