Museums, galleries and heritage sites were among the many institutions that became
more inclusive and accessible because of the DDA. But while much has changed over the past 20 years, many disabled people still find that areas of the country are off-limits to them, so a lot more needs to be done.
Some museums are rising to this challenge and are
continuing to increase what they offer disabled
people, as well as improving access in the widest
sense.
The People’s History Museum in Manchester
is working with disability charity Scope to establish a
collection to record and commemorate the movement
that led to the DDA.
The aim is to position the campaign for disability rights in the museum’s wider human rights story. There will also be a temporary exhibition at the museum to mark the anniversary.
Last month VisitEngland launched a campaign to raise awareness of accessible destinations and businesses. This follows work the tourism body has been doing with seven destinations to create a series of access guides. Several museums, galleries and heritage sites have been involved, including Chatsworth House, Turner Contemporary and Vindolanda Roman fort.
But there is no room for complacency. A recent sold-out Museums Association event on rethinking disabled access and interpretation showed that there is demand for more work in this area. The Disability Cooperative Network, which will share knowledge to break down barriers for disability in the cultural sector, launched its website at the event.
One of the positive things about this issue is that
the solutions are out there. A lot of gains can be made
through increased awareness and a changed mindset.
It is about engaging with different audiences and working with them, not just doing stuff for them. It should also be remembered that there are 12 million disabled people in Britain, with an estimated annual spending power of £200bn. But ultimately, it is not about economics, it is about fairness, inclusivity and doing what is right.
There will be more on this subject in the next issue of Museums Journal. Please contact us if you would like to contribute.
Simon Stephens, editor, Museums Journal
