AT this time, no business would want to hear a call for the expenditure of money. However, there is an expenditure that is small and may provide a good return.

Some businesses have already made changes and one hopes that they have been patronised as a result.

I refer to basic ramps and/or labels in the window, either of which require little outlay, clearly indicating that help is at hand from the store or service provider.

For some years, there has been a disability discrimination act in force and yet too many service providers have made no effort to comply with the reasonable requirements of the act.

Disadvantaged people frequently have no one to ‘fight their corner’ and are usually too stressed with their disability to take on the service provider that has refused them the same level of service that a fully able person receives.

There are many service providers in Herefordshire that have made no attempt to provide services to disadvantaged people. Sooner, rather than later, someone will take action against a business that ignores the disability discrimination act.

The spinal injuries association (SIA), among others, is rightly keen to see that more providers obey the law. Jonathan Fogerty, the SIA’s training officer, was forced to take legal action after he had to be carried into a bar by friends as no ramp or lift had been provided and then was further embarrassed because there was no toilet for the disabled.

The result was a compensation payment of £3,500 and a further £700 for expenses incurred. If the provider fails to make access changes, further action could be taken.

What is best? A label in a shop window indicating that help for purchase is available and maybe a small ramp – or large compensation payment?

Service providers should bear in mind that if a disadvantaged person does not have access, then that could also mean that any carers or relatives with them will not access the service.

All may suffer social exclusion, will spend their money elsewhere and possibly consider action against the provider.

The equality and human rights commission will help to bring service providers to account where they are failing in their statutory obligations.

TONY REES, Little Birch, Hereford.