Access Audits | About Us | Sutherland Access Panel

What is Sutherland Access Panel?

Sutherland Access Panel is a group of people who work with and on behalf of people with disabilities and their carers to improve access to local buildings by providing Access Audits and to raise awareness of other access issues such as access to information.

Who are Sutherland Access Panel?

The panel is made up of individuals some of whom have a disability, their carers, people with an interest in disability issues and professionals. i.e. representatives of Highland Council Services (Planning, Building Standards, Tec Services and so on), Architects, Developers, Access Auditors and other interested agencies.

How often does the Panel meet?

The Panel meets approximately four times a year, usually in the council offices at Drummuie in Golspie, in an accessible building. Meetings typically take place during the day. Meetings are open to anyone and are normally attended by Panel Members and professionals incl. Staff from the Highland Council. A range of issues are discussed at meetings including Planning Applications, Access Audits or access concerns and village issues. At some meetings the Panel will have a Guest Speaker.

Why is the Access Panel important?

The work of the Panel is significant owing to the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and The Disability Equality Duty.