Disabled Access Day is a fantastic opportunity to highlight best practices that make buildings such as hospitals, museums, and shops more inclusive and accessible for people living with vision impairment. Simple adjustments can make a significant difference, ensuring that everyone can navigate spaces safely and independently.
Signage: The 3B’s – Bigger, Bolder, Brighter
Clear and effective signage is crucial for accessibility. Here’s how to improve it:
- Bigger – Ensure text is as large as possible. The minimum for large print is size 16, but for signs, we recommend going as big as feasible.
- Bolder – Use bold text to improve visibility and legibility.
- Brighter – High-contrast colours improve readability. Black text on a yellow background is a great example. Avoid pastels and patterned backgrounds, as they reduce clarity.
Steps, Kerbs, and Bollards: Make Hazards Visible
Physical obstacles can be dangerous for people with vision impairment. To improve safety:
- Paint steps, kerbs, and bollards in a bright white colour to enhance visibility, even in low lighting.
- Consider using tactile markings where possible to help differentiate levels and pathways.
Lighting: Brighten the Right Areas
Proper lighting placement can greatly improve accessibility. Consider:
- Using bright, daylight bulbs, especially in key areas such as dining spaces, staircases, entrances, and exits.
- Positioning lighting carefully—most people benefit from bright lighting when it is directed appropriately.
Transport: Accessibility Beyond the Building
Access isn’t just about the building itself but also about the journey to get there. To improve accessibility:
- Ensure your venue is well-connected to public transport options.
- Provide clear transport information, including accessible routes and nearby stops.
- Consider adding audio announcements or tactile maps to assist navigation.
Vision Impairment Varies
It’s important to remember that vision impairment varies greatly. While these recommendations won’t suit everyone, they can make a huge difference in creating a more inclusive society.
If you’d like further advice and guidance on how to make your venue more accessible for people living with vision impairment, we’re here to help!
Email: information@visionsupport.org.uk Telephone: 01244 381515
