Abstract

This document details the scoping report initiated between Eric Knows CIO (Charity Registration No. 1206621) and the University of Sunderland to explore perceptions of provision in public spaces and community resources for individuals across the United Kingdom who have additional Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Opinions were sought via online questionnaires distributed during January to December 2021. Participants were 310 individuals with SEND needs and a further 103 individuals who completed the questionnaire on behalf of a person with SEND needs. The findings of this report arise from the perspectives of this disparate study group who between them declared a diverse range of disabilities that covered all the body systems, and which in many cases involved multiple systems and/or multiple long term health conditions. The participants identified a variety of accessibility needs with the most significant being mobility aids, space to calm down if needed, accessible toilets, supportive staff and clear information on the website prior to visiting. The key barriers to access for individuals with disabilities were categorised under: human interactions, sensory, infrastructure & facilities, space, and travel. Barriers to inclusivity were not experienced in isolation but were cumulative and synergistic in nature, demonstrating a need for a holistic person-centred approach.