Ensure that the entrance to the practice is easy to find from the street, car park or other routes to the building, taking into account the needs of those with visual impairments or learning disabilities. For example, consider:
- adding clearer signs (e.g. to direct people to the entrance or on the premises itself)
- painting the door a contrasting colour or chromaticity from the surround
- relocating the main entrance to where it is easily identifiable and provides level access (particularly if undertaking building alteration)
Ensure the entrance to the practice is well lit and all routes are even (e.g. no cracked or uneven paving slabs), firm, not slippery (e.g. free of moss) and free of obstacles (e.g. litter bins are positioned appropriately).
Consider whether you could make the following adjustments to increase accessibility:
- provide an accessible parking bay (a minimum of 3.6 m wide) with easy access to the practice entrance (NB: advice can be sought from your local access panel; see Access Survey)
- install a call bell or entry phone system, at a suitable height for wheelchair users, to alert staff. To accommodate patients with hearing impairments, ensure there is a visible indication that the call has been answered or the door catch released (e.g. an indicator light)