Ms Ruth O'Reilly:

On the issue of space, basic accessibility involves the provision of enough space for people who use different mobility devices. We see adequate space as an essential aspect of architectural quality when talking about UD. In the work we have been doing on housing, we find that the biggest barrier to delivery seems to be target floor areas that are too small. Without the provision of an occupational therapist's certificate, the Department will not fund units bigger than the target floor areas. From our point of view, this is about making UD in housing mainstream, not thinking about general needs, people with disabilities and people who are ageing, in order that UD becomes part of the way we design all our housing. The issue of target floor areas is key and funding for it needs to be addressed. In much of the consultation we have had with approved housing bodies recently, they have told us they want to build UD homes, but they cannot get funding for the additional floor area needed for homes that are liveable for wheelchair users.