Disabled Access Policy
Disabled Access Policy for Cottage Dental.
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1. Purpose Cottage Dental is committed to providing accessible and inclusive dental services to all individuals, including those with disabilities. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring equal access and a welcoming environment for everyone.
2. Scope This policy applies to all patients, visitors, and staff members interacting with Cottage Dental.
3. Compliance We strive to meet or exceed all applicable local and UK accessibility laws and regulations, including but not limited to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995
4. Accessibility Measures
4.1 Physical Access: We have taken steps to ensure that our dental practice is physically accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes:
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Accessible parking spaces close to the practice.
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Ramps for easy entry.
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Wide doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs.
4.2 Communication Access: We are committed to effective communication with all patients, regardless of their abilities. Our measures include:
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Providing information in accessible formats upon request, such as large print or digital formats.
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Ensuring staff members are trained in communication techniques for patients with hearing impairments.
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Utilising assistive devices or sign language interpreters as needed.
4.3 Website Accessibility: Our online presence is designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. We follow best practices for web accessibility and are continuously working to improve the user experience for all visitors.
4.4 Assistance and Accommodations: We encourage patients with disabilities to inform us of their specific needs before their appointment. We will do our best to provide necessary accommodations, such as longer appointment times if needed.
5. Staff Training Our staff members are trained to interact respectfully and effectively with patients with disabilities. This includes understanding how to operate accessibility features, offering assistance, and maintaining a welcoming attitude.
6. Feedback and Concerns We value feedback from patients and visitors. If you encounter any accessibility issues during your visit, please let us know. We are committed to addressing concerns promptly and making improvements where necessary, you can provide feedback via our website, or call us directly on 01270 765771.
7. Continuous Improvement We are dedicated to ongoing improvements in accessibility. We will regularly review and update our policies, procedures, and physical facilities to ensure that we maintain a high standard of accessibility for all.
8. Point of Contact For any questions, concerns, or accommodation requests related to accessibility, please contact our practice operations manager, Jackie Armstrong on 01270 765771.
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9. Review and Revision This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Any necessary revisions will be made to uphold our commitment to accessibility.
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​Approved By: Dr Sandy Limerick, Jackie Armstrong & Michelle Goode
Date Published: 21/10/2022
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