We have all seen the handles in bathrooms and the pull cords in a disabled toilet but how important are they and how does the law protect them?
Accessibility aids such a lifts, support handles and emergency pull cords are essential for the accessibility and safety of disabled people. It’s essential to note that these requirements aren’t just for show, under the law they must also be safe, clean and usable.
Client Case Study – The Dilly Hotel
This is what was discussed in our client’s case against the Dilly Hotel, our client arrived at the hotel for a two-night stay with her mother, on booking, she had requested an accessible room with an adjoining room. She had also confirmed this via phone call prior to her stay. However, despite her efforts on arrival she was informed the accessible rooms do not have adjoining rooms and her mother would have to stay in a room next door. This is unsuitable as it reduces privacy should there be the need any help or assistance. Sadly, the issues did not end there.
Following a meal our client attempted to leave the hotel restaurant via the platform lift, the lift however failed to open leaving our client trapped and unable to leave. She was on full view and left embarrassed. It was eventually fixed however concerns regarding the maintenance of the lift were raised.
The following day in the client’s room the shower handle came off in her hand, the safety rails were unable to be used due to dirt and limescale build up which had caused them to become stuck. Our client had to wait twenty minutes and was left vulnerable as work men attempted to fix the issues. All of which would have been prevented if the accessibility aids were properly cleaned and maintained.
The Dilly hotel is a 5-star hotel who alleges to be accessible for wheelchair users however the reality is starkly different. Dilly hotel went on to settle with our client awarding them £4000 including costs.
We can help
At Ringrose Law we are there to support you, if you believe you have suffered discrimination, please contact our discrimination team at 01522 561020 or contact us via our website.