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Architectural designs were assessed .
Direct Access were subsequently appointed to manage the curation and programming in the run up to the event developing policies , systems and procedures for all aspects of Expo operations , and to support international participants with designs of accessibility features within their pavilions .
A team was based onsite full-time to work with Expo staff . Direct Access ’ founder Steven Mifsud MBE was then appointed Director of Accessibility for the duration of Expo 2020 .
Several firsts were introduced to the Middle East region , this included the Sunflower Lanyard scheme , which is used to signify the wearer has a hidden disability and may require assistance . As well as the provision of four service dog relief areas and Changing Places restroom facilities – these are enlarged accessible restrooms predominantly for wheelchair users who require assistance and are equipped with a hoist .
Meanwhile , quiet spaces were introduced in four locations across the 1,028-acre site providing a useful space for neurodiverse and other visitors who were overstimulated . These spaces enabled people to rest and then return to experience the delights of Expo 2020 .
Direct Access developed and delivered training programmes
Direct Access Group Founder & CEO Steven Mifsud ( Right ) and Operations Director Steve Dering at the Expo site .
for front line staff and volunteers . They installed evacuation chairs to assist people with reduced mobility in an emergency evacuation , installed induction loops to make it easier for hard of hearing people to have conversations in noisy environments and facilitated sign language interpretation of key events .
With a team who all have a disability , Direct Access were able to provide a depth of understanding of the barriers that disabled people face that cannot be achieved just by reading accessibility standards .
It is not just about following standards , large events are an opportunity to redefine what accessibility is . That is the legacy for disabled people Expo 2020 is taking into the new Expo City . in partnership with www . directaccessgp . com
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