Able 2 and the Disability Discrimination Initiative

‘Able 2' are one of the country's leading specialist and independent Occupational Therapists or ‘OTs'. Established for over 12 years, and centrally based in Shropshire, their highly skilled State Registered OTs, complemented by a select team of dedicated, highly motivated and experienced support staff are strategically placed throughout the U.K enabling them to service their contracts on a nationwide basis. With a wide and diverse range of clients, Able 2 provide occupational assessment and consultancy to Local Authority Social Services Departments, Charities, Housing Associations and other organisations. The Able 2 OTs provide a thorough and comprehensive assessment of the individual requirements of each service user, with hassle free, quick and accurate reports delivered by leading edge bespoke computer programmes. All assessments are processed speedily, and additionally Able 2 manage and take ownership of each individual case from start to finish. Not only does this proactive approach relieve the administration burden and subsequent cost to social services, it also helps to alleviate bedblocking, an all too common problem for the NHS over recent years.

Able 2 Philosophy

Able 2 is a thriving and busy concern, but has never lost sight of its founding principles, as Madeleine Butler, Able 2's proprietor, outlines. "The philosophy of Able 2 is to provide a quality caring service, which enables people with disabilities to live their lives as fully as possible. We are committed to providing them with information and advice to allow them to make informed choices and attain their maximum level of ability. In this way they will achieve their appropriate level of ability and involvement in the community."

Problems Facing Disabled People

The Disability Discrimination Act of 1995 provided legislation giving rights to disabled people to access employment, facilities and services, but Madeleine believes the prejudice that disabled people face is still unacceptable in today's society. "This often results as a consequence of misunderstanding and fear. It is essential that the powers of the Disability Discrimination Act are reinforced to remove the long standing prejudice and allow all members of society to have access to community resources and facilities. Able 2 is committed to empowering disabled people with regard to how they wish to live their lives."

Disabled Facilities Grants

Implicit within the Disability Discrimination Act is for accessible environments and buildings. Able 2 assists businesses to audit their premises and provides detailed advice and recommendations to modify or adapt their premises to be accessible and usable by all members of the public. Able 2 also work with a number of Grant Departments whereby the Social Services OTs undertake an initial assessment and recommend major adaptations in the client's home.