Make Public Buildings Accessible for Persons with Disabilities

For many people, entering a public building is something they never have to think about.

But for a person using a wheelchair, someone with limited mobility or a person with visual impairment, even a simple visit to a government office, hospital or other public facility can become extremely difficult.

1. A staircase without a ramp can become a barrier.

2. A lift that does not work can mean turning back.

3. An inaccessible toilet, narrow entrance or poorly designed pathway can make a building practically unusable for someone who has every right to be there.

Accessibility should not be treated as an optional feature.

Public buildings exist to serve the public and that includes persons with disabilities.

We are asking the concerned government departments and local authorities to review accessibility at public buildings under their control and take practical steps to remove barriers.

This should include accessible entrances and ramps where required, functioning lifts in appropriate buildings, accessible toilets, suitable pathways and entrances, clear signage and reasonable arrangements for people who require assistance.

Older buildings may take time to modify completely. But that should not become a reason for doing nothing.

Authorities can identify the most serious barriers first, publish accessibility information, establish timelines for improvements and ensure that accessibility is considered whenever public buildings are constructed or renovated.

A person should not have to depend on strangers to climb stairs, struggle through an unsuitable entrance, or abandon an important government or hospital visit because a building was not designed with them in mind.

Accessibility is about dignity, independence and equal participation.

Please sign this petition and support the call for public buildings that everyone can access and use.