Q. What and who are the ABA?

A. The ABA (Action for Better Access) is a registered charity established in 1988. We are also a recognised established organisation offering a unique merit rating scheme for Goods and Service Providers supported by local government bodies and other reputable establishments such as the FSB (Federation of Small Businesses).

Q. How can the ABA help my organisation?

A. The ABA was founded by disabled members of the community with varying disabilities. The sole objective of the ABA has been to work with disabled groups and other inspectorates to establish uniformity for the needs of the disabled, at the same time recognising the difficulties of the suppliers of Goods and Services. That is why the ABA designed a 6 Star Merit Rating Scheme to help clarify to the disabled community at large the level of service to expect.

Q. How do I get a merit rating?

A. Call our office to make an appointment for an audit and an ABA audit consultant will visit your premises. Dependent on the type of venue, a survey will be carried out and a simple questionnaire form completed. Some of the questions are concerning access to your premises and whether a ramp is required. Floor surfaces, toilet facilities and safety aspects are taken into consideration. Subject to completion of the questionnaire an assessment of the premises merit rating will be supplied with a certificate.

Q. Does the merit rating certificate mean that I am fully compliant with the D.D.A?

A. The merit rating certificate is supplied after an audit and, dependent on the findings, a 1-6 star merit will be awarded. If any work has to be carried out in order to meet with the requirements of the law; full compliance will only be awarded on completion of such work. The certificate is a clear indication that your organisation intends to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Q. Is there a cost for the ABA audit service?

A. Yes. There is a fee for our services; otherwise the Charity would not survive. Technical & legal advice does not come free. Research, staff and training are also resources that have a price. Our audit fee starts at £75.00, dependent on the type of venue to be audited. This also includes the ABA merit rating certificate and membership. All ABA members will be included on our Website: www.abaaudit.org and listed in our monthly newsletter.

Q. What gives the ABA more credibility than some other organisations?

A. The ABA employs trained disabled personnel of varying disabilities, to assist with the audits. Who better than the disabled to carry out this service within the guidelines of the Disability Discrimination Act?

“Action for Better Access gives the disabled integrity within the community".