The final part of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) that requires premises to be physically accessible was implemented in October 2004. This means that churches have a legal duty to be inclusive and accessible to disabled people alongside the moral duty that has always existed, but was often overlooked. This has been a challenge and inspiration to the Leaders here at Mossvale Community Church. We have an obligation to find solutions and make 'reasonable adjustments' for disabled people, such as providing extra help or making changes to the way the church provides its services.

So far we have introduced:
Large print copies of 'The Noticeboard' (our weekly bulletin) and the study guides for Pastor Hugh Chalk's sermon
An induction loop system for hearing aid users
Installation of a wheelchair accessible toilet (in the Mossvale Hall)
Building two ramps for the front door, so that we will all enter to worship together

We have recently completed:
Reviewing all our songs (which are projected onto the large screen), so that they are consistent in font, size and colour contrast, and therefore as easy to read as possible
Restructuring the platform to allow easier access to the back halls.

We are still planning:
New signage throughout the building
Further small ramps / handrails
Identifying further improvements in the four disability areas: mobility impairment, visual impairment, deafness & hearing loss and learning disability.

Training was provided by Through the Roof in conjunction with the Evangelical Alliance, and our own David Ferguson has taken on the role to co-ordinate the new facilities. Valuable advice has been gained from 'Churches for All', the TTR campaign to emphasise the vital need for good practice so that people with disabilities, elderly people and their families may be fully included in the life of the church.

---

     All images and text (c) Mossvale Community Church 1999 - 2007 Please read our Privacy Statement

---