Scope

Sections 26, 27 and 28 of the Disability Act 2005 (the Act), are the focus of this Code of Practice.

The Sections set out specific requirements regarding public information and services, including services and goods purchased by public bodies so that they are accessible to people with disabilities where practicable.

Aim

This Code has been developed in order to support public bodies in fulfilling their statutory obligations under sections 26, 27 and 28 of the Disability Act 2005 (the Act) (see Appendix one).

Application

This document should prove useful to public bodies by providing practical guidance on the various elements involved and examples of possible approaches and methods that could be employed to ensure that their services are accessible to people with disabilities where practicable and appropriate. It will also provide a useful source of information for people with disabilities using these services, their advocates, and organisations representing people with disabilities.

Specific Objectives of this Code

The specific objectives of the Code are to:

1. support public bodies by providing a practical interpretation of the requirements of sections 26, 27 and 28, of the Disability Act, 2005 (the Act);
2. give practical advice on how these requirements can be met while appreciating the range and diversity of public bodies and services involved.