6C Changes Accessible Rooms Policy In U.K. Following Dispute

LONDON— Six Continents Hotels changed its policy on rooms for people with disabilities following the settlement of a disability discrimination dispute through the U.K.s Disability Rights Commission. The dispute arose when Carl Ford— a disability consultant from Shropshire who uses a wheelchair— tried to book a twin room for himself and his helper in a London Express by Holiday Inn last November. Though the hotel had accessible rooms, they all contained one double bed rather than two singles, so Ford was forced to pay for two adjoining rooms. This breached the Disability Discrimination Act by offering a lesser service people with disabilities. So Ford went to the Disability Rights Commission after failing to solve the problem locally. The commission tries to resolve discrimination complaints out of court. Ford, who was awarded undisclosed compensation, described the talks as “very constructive,” and indicated that Six Continents had proved “approachable and open” to the issues. Going forward all Six Continents U.K. hotels will now give disabled customers and their helpers access to a second room at no extra cost if twin rooms are unavailable. Plus, future hotel projects will include twin rooms for disabled guests and their companions, as well as the current layout with adapted bathrooms, double beds and plenty of turning room. SOURCE: Caterer & Hotelkeeper