The Disability Discrimination Act (2004) brought in legislation that sought to provide Inclusive Access for people across all service providers, including cafes, libraries, pubs, post offices and shops.
The salon identified that they had clients using wheelchairs visit the salon but it became increasingly apparent that some clients were however not being catered for.
A significant amount of space was identified with the three floor salon but, based within an historic part of the city, there was a need to be mindful of significant structural changes to the building being undertaken, resulting in several designs and layouts being explored before choosing the right combination.
Following a Health & Safety assessment and a degree of logistical tinkering, all of the new equipment was installed on the ground floor of the salon, engaging the services of a local plumber and heating engineer, who were also able to ensure the salon remained open throughout the work.
Stephen Reynolds, Health & Safety Manager at Lazarou Duke Street Salon & Barbers, told us: “Having rehearsed for a wheelchair using client, we were delighted when not long after installation a ‘live’ client using a powered wheelchair agreed to ‘test drive’ our stand-alone basin to give further perspective on the equipment and layout.
They found they were able to manoeuvre themselves to the backwash and had no problem in receiving a full hair shampoo and conditioning treatment. Additionally, if a person finds it uncomfortable to sit back for a hair wash, the stand-alone unit affords the possibility to face forward and over the sink for a hair wash, either standing or sitting.”
Many existing clients have taken advantage of the ground floor facilities, not everyone with mobility issues uses a wheelchair and this option appeals to a variety of people who may wish to avoid the stairs. The new facilities allow the opportunity for everyone to visit a salon environment and share the experience.
Lazarou are proud to be unique in offering this choice of facilities at their salon and hope that other salons will follow their lead.
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