Shops need 'mindset change' on disabled access

"Millions of pounds a month are lost by UK shops and businesses because they are not accessible to people with disabilities, according to an awareness campaign. Purple Tuesday, which says a "mindset change" is needed, is urging retailers to consider new ways of improving inclusion such as adapting sensory experiences for neurodivergent people. Some 16 million people in the UK have a disability, and 90% of disabled people found their shopping experience was affected by a lack of accessibility, according to the Business Disability Forum."

"Mike Adams, the founder of Purple Tuesday, says retailers and others who offer services need to make changes to the way they operate to attract disabled shoppers. Purple Tuesday trains businesses and organisations to improve their accessibility and inclusion standards in shops, restaurants and public spaces. Campaigners gathered in Piccadilly Circus in central London to watch the screens turn purple to celebrate Purple Tuesday, which is also marked in several other countries."

"Mr Adams told BBC London: "In terms of the disability population, wheelchair users comprise 8%. "So we need to think about how businesses can support the other 92% - people with mental health, neurodiversity, long-term health conditions - where some of the accessibility changes that are required aren't physical ramps and lifts but are more mindset changes that actually cost very little or nothing.""

Millions of pounds are lost monthly by UK shops and businesses because many retail environments are inaccessible to disabled people. Sixteen million people in the UK have a disability and 90% report that their shopping experience is affected by lack of accessibility. Purple Tuesday calls for mindset changes and urges retailers to adapt sensory experiences for neurodivergent customers and address non-physical accessibility needs. Wheelchair users represent about 8% of the disabled population while the other 92% include people with mental health conditions, neurodiversity and long-term health conditions. Purple Tuesday trains businesses to improve accessibility in shops, restaurants and public spaces.

Read at www.bbc.com