Some things to bear in mind when inviting them to or conducting a meeting are to:
• Check on the degree of the personal independence of the individual, it would be helpful to ascertain whether they:
o need special parking arrangements
o walk unaided
o manage steps and stairs
o require specialist seating
o use and require access to a wheelchair
o benefit from a meeting room on the ground floor with proximity to an accessible toilet.
• Enquire about the best format for organising the face-to-face aspects of the meeting, taking into account the role of the communication aid, the position of the wheelchair and the presence of the personal assistant.
• Speak clearly and naturally and avoid exaggerated, slow or loud speech.
• If a personal assistant is present make sure that all the communication is directed to the disabled person and not through the third party.
• If the individual is a wheelchair user the meeting organiser should be sat at the same level. Do not lean on the wheelchair as it is likely to form part of the individual's personal space.
• If the disabled person has a communication aid it is important to let them use this as a matter of course and not interrupt
• If the person has a speech impairment this may make communication difficult. Do not give the impression of understanding if you have not. Being asked to repeat several times is likely to be a familiar experience for the individual, if they have chosen to be independent in this way. If there is any doubt about what is being said, clarify a statement by repeating it.
• If helping a wheelchair user move around, do not move them without warning and move at a slow and comfortable pace especially around hazards
• If pushing the chair, tell them if you are moving away so that they do not feel stranded or are left talking to themselves
• Schedule the meeting to take longer and offer time out.
(adapted from An audit and guidance tool for accessible practice within the framework of teaching the learning, SWANDS, 1992 – 2002).
It is worth noting that severe facial disfigurement also comes under the DDA as this can impact upon someone life.
For further information to help support students with a mobility impairment