The Government in England has published the long-awaited outcome of the 2020 consultation on raising accessibility standards for new homes.
Newly built homes will now have to achieve an increased level of accessibility and adaptability in line with Part M4(2) of the building regulations, a standard which has been optional in most parts of the country until now. This includes features such as step-free access into dwellings, increased circulation space and access to toilet facilities on the entrance storey. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT), the professional body for occupational therapy, has welcomed the changes, but still feels that there are further steps that need to be taken to increase accessibility for all.
Lauren Walker, RCOT professional adviser, said: “Unsuitable homes can be incredibly disabling and contribute to health inequity, as we discuss in our, so it’s fantastic that the government is finally taking steps to improve the accessibility of new housing. Occupational therapists understand the vital importance of people’s environments in enabling them to live their lives safely and do the things that are important to them. This change will have a huge impact on the people that occupational therapists help.
“It is, however, disappointing that our recommendation to mandate a percentage of fully accessible homes hasn’t been taken given the chronic lack across the country. Over 400,000 wheelchair users currently live in homes that are unsuitable for them, but less than 50% of local authorities have policies for the development of wheelchair-accessible properties in their local plans. This is something that needs to change quickly.
“There are different approaches to accessibility throughout the UK nations and although the new changes currently only apply in England, we hope that the new standards will provide a catalyst for enhanced accessibility across the UK. We will continue to work with members and stakeholders to campaign for inclusive homes for all.”
Jacquel Runnalls, co-opted lead for accessible and inclusive design for the RCOT specialist section – Housing, said: “Occupational therapists have long been calling for accessible and inclusive homes so it’s a relief to see accessible and adaptable housing finally mandated in England. The Specialist Section – Housing has been part of the journey. We have been campaigning for this for over 30 years but we are not there yet.”
The Government will now conduct a second consultation on the implementation of the changes, including updates to the building regulations.
