Kathryn Gundry, Access Advisor on the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC), tells us about her role and shares her top tips for planning a good access project.
I am an Architect and Inclusive Design Consultant in my thirties, deeply committed to accessibility and inclusion. Since November 2023, I have served as the Access Adviser for the Diocese of London’s Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC). In this role, I provide expert guidance on proposals aimed at improving access to church buildings. Although my title is “Access Adviser,” my focus extends beyond accessibility to champion inclusive environments. Inclusive design ensures that spaces are usable by everyone. The built environment influences our ability to interact, move, see, hear, and communicate effectively. Inclusive design seeks to eliminate barriers, fostering environments where everyone can participate equally, confidently, and independently. Accessibility is a crucial aspect of the broader concept of inclusive design. Inclusion is increasingly integrated into policies and recommendations, such as the Royal Institute of British Architects Inclusive Design Overlay. Visit the RIBA website here. This overlay emphasizes the importance of engaging communities and individuals with diverse experiences in the design, construction, and management of the built environment.
In my role as Access Advisor, I have encountered a wide range of projects of varying scales, which have informed my key recommendations for successful access projects:
- Engagement: Engaging with users, staff, and the general public is crucial. Ideally, no project should proceed without evidence of meaningful consultation. Incorporating lived experiences is essential for the success of any project.
- Adhering to Fundamentals: Ensuring compliance with best practices and regulations (where possible) is vital, especially given the process and listed status of many buildings reviewed by the DAC. Understanding the rationale behind recommendations or regulations and their impact on building usability is crucial.
- Considering All Users: Regulations often focus on disability, particularly wheelchair users, but it’s essential to consider a range of characteristics, including hearing loss, visual impairments, and neurodiversity. Design must empathize with the diverse needs of all users.
- Seeking Expert Advice: There are numerous access and inclusive design specialists who can provide valuable support and guidance.
The most significant lesson I’ve learned is not to let perfection hinder progress. Every project presents an opportunity for incremental improvements. While piecemeal interventions can sometimes result in a disjointed approach, it is essential to apply an access and inclusion perspective to every aspect of a project, from colour contrast and finishes to the acoustic properties of heating systems. Ultimately, all projects should be evaluated for their impact on end users, aiming to create a more equitable environment.