Member Article

Telephone service provides disabled access information

A new service is due to be launched by Arthritis Care and Direct Enquiries to provide disabled people with a dedicated Access Information Line. Direct Enquiries already provide a website, www.directenquiries.com, where companies can highlight their disabled access and other facilities, but the new phone line recognises the fact that not all disabled people have access to the internet.

The new initiative provides an alternative means of obtaining information that is vital to helping them gain access to services and facilities non-disabled people may take for granted.

Arthritis Care members can use the information line in a manner similar to other directory services currently available. However, this new service provides details on a wide range of access information, as Direct Enquiries have listings for many high street brands as well as thousands of independent shops and public buildings. In addition to offering information for people with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments, the phone line can also help wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs.

Neil Betteridge, Chief Executive of Arthritis Care, said: “This innovative new service should be of great benefit to all of our members, many of whom would like to use the service online but have been unable to because of their arthritis. By working with Direct Enquiries we have been able to offer a unique service that aims to make the lives of thousands of people easier by providing greater choice and the ability to plan ahead.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .