ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the issues facing the construction industry in terms of enabling disabled people to participate fully in society. The construction industry be it through the design of buildings, or through the employment of people in those buildings, or through the employment of people within the construction process itself, has a responsibility to ensure that the environment it creates, is fully inclusive. An environment that differentiates or segregates leads to people not being able to fully participate in society, which in turn can lead to discrimination. An example of this can be seen through a survey undertaken by the UK Disability Rights Commission (2003a). They interviewed 305 young disabled people aged 16-24 about their experiences. They concluded that there are still many barriers in society preventing young disabled people from achieving their aspirations and having equal access to education, employment and social activities in their communities. ‘This survey found that young disabled people often had to deal with prejudice and discrimination in many areas of their lives.’
