Debenhams first store to be prosecuted under DDA

Debenhams will become the first retailer to be prosecuted under
the Disability Discrimination Act for failing to improve physical
access to goods and services within its Derby store,
writes Clare Jerrom.

Wheelchair user Greg Jackson is suing the retailer because he
has been denied access to a section of the menswear department,
according to the Disability Rights Commission.

Chair of the DRC Bert Massie said: “An independent report
for the DRC shows that some 20 Debenhams stores pose similar access
barriers to those found in Derby.”

“This is unacceptable,” he added.

Part three of the DDA places specific duties on shops and
businesses that provide services to the public to alter, adapt or
remove barriers that make it unreasonably difficult for disabled
people to receive fair treatment.