21 March 2005
The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) has launched a new online tool to help organisations meet their disability access needs.
The system Provides online access to a database of over 200 disability trainers, auditors and consultants who have an interest or experience in working with museums, galleries, libraries and archives.
"Disability Experts is the first database of its kind in the cultural sector - and the latest step towards reducing access barriers in our heritage organisations," said the MLA.
The listings service gives contact information for the disability experts as well as details of professional experience, type of work undertaken and previous experience.
Marcus Weisen, MLA health and disability adviser, said: "Disability Experts marries the needs of heritage organisations with the expertise of disability access specialists in their area. If you want to find a deaf awareness trainer or disability equality trainer who works close to your institution, or to prepare a list of access auditors and consultants for your audit tendering process, Disability Experts answers all such questions.
"Staff training and access audits are among the most effective ways for museums, libraries and archives to develop equal access for disabled people. They are also an effective way of meeting the 'anticipatory duties under the Disability Discrimination Act (1985)'. Disability Experts is a listings service that makes it easier for heritage institutions to reach this goal."© DeHavilland Information Services plc
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