New practitioners may not be able to influence a lot of things in
their work environment but, if they interview student clients in their
own office, creating an accessible and welcoming space could be possible.
Decor - apart from personalising the workspace with
family artwork or photographs it is also good to introduce restful
colours into the decor.
Doorways - ideally these should be a minimum of 850
mm wide and sliding but if you have only a standard hinged model keep
it clear so that the door can be opened fully and students with
mobility difficulties can use it safely.
Floor space - if a proper turning circle of 1.2
square metres is not available there should be sufficient room to allow
a person using a wheelchair to get in and out of the room with ease and
dignity.
Floor covering - plush carpet is hard work for many students with disabilities so industrial carpet tiles are fine.
Lighting - it is important for practitioners to
place themselves in a well-lit position in relation to
students/visitors so that their face can be seem clearly (ie. by not
having their back to a window or other source of strong light).
Seating - for students/visitors seating should be
firm, stable (without wheels), of average height or a little higher
and, preferably with arms. In order to facilitate open communication
practitioners should be seated at the same level as visitors (adjust
the chairs if necessary) with no barriers (ie. desk) between them and
their visitor/s.