Pubs are losing up to £50bn without disabled facilities

Sky TV debate highlights discrimination problems and solutions

Pubs are losing up to £50bn every year by failing to make their premises accessible to disabled customers.

Maria Eagle MP, who represents the interests of disabled people, made the claim during a debate on the Disability Discrimination Act broadcast on Sky TV's Pub Channel. "Simple and cheap adjustments are often all that are needed," said Ms Eagle.

"It's thinking how adjustments can be made."

"Licensees should also remember there are eight-and-a half million disabled people in this country with £45-50bn in spending power.

"They are missing out on a big market by not being accessible."

The Act sets a deadline of 2004 to make any "reasonable" adjustments needed to provide those with disabilities with the same quality of service and access as other users.

Suggestions include installing ramps in pubs, offering table service to disabled customers, teaching staff sign language and offering a braille menu.

Brian Rowland, project manager for the Pub Estate Company, acknowledged that many pubs have faced significant problems complying with the Act.

"If you want to get a ramp into the pub there's quite a lot of co-operation needed from the local authorities but it is possible and isn't always expensive," he said.

Phil Friend, a disabled access consultant and himself a wheelchair user, told thePublican.com: "What I think we need to stress is that when people talk about complying with the law, they are missing the point. Yes, it may cost something to install a ramp. But until you do so it is impossible to say how much trade the pub is missing out on.

"Wheelchair users are just one aspect of it. What about ensuring that barstaff are aware of the needs of deaf people, or having a braille menu for blind customers?

"Everyone enjoys going out for a drink and a meal, and the disabled community is immensely loyal to any business that shows them a little consideration."