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Treat your disabled clients right
Seema Flower is the managing director of Covent Garden salon ColourNation and is also registered blind. In addition to her role in hairdressing, Seema runs Access and Beyond, which specialises in Disability Discrimination Act training. Here, she explains how you can make your disabled clients feel comfortable and cared for:
 Treat all disabled customers as individuals. Never assume people with the same disability will always have the same needs. Always address the disabled customer and don’t ignore them or talk to their carer. I often have to explain to people that it’s my eyes that don’t work, not my brain. Most people with a disability will want to be treated like a “normal” customer and don’t want too much attention drawn to them.
Make your price list accessible such as having large print and even Braille versions. Train your staff to read price lists for blind or partially sighted customers.
Make reasonable adjustments to your premises for wheelchair access, for example a ramp at your front door. Remember that these adjustments will also benefit mothers with pushchairs, people with heavy shopping and others who might not consider themselves disabled.
Hearing-impaired clients should be talked to face to face so that they can lip read what you are saying rather than seeing it in the mirror. Wherever possible try to conduct the consultation in a quieter part of the salon.
The physical environment is important. Be mindful of a good approach to the entrance, lighting and colour contrast. Also be aware of trip hazards or obstacles such as hairdryer cables and mixing trolleys.
If you are going to employ someone with a disability make time to find out what their needs are. Help is available for various adaptations in the workplace through the Access to Work scheme. You may need to make a small contribution as an employer.
Visit www.accessandbeyond.co.uk for more information about DDA training.
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