Theresa May launches plan to make all new homes accessible for disabled people

The prime minister’s announcement comes just a week after housing secretary James Brokenshire promised to review the requirements to provide accessible homes after a new report by association Habinteg revealed that just 1% of planned homes outside of London will be suitable for wheelchair users.

The consultation on housing accessibility came as part of a wave of policies put forward today aimed at improving the lives of disabled people in the UK, and fighting injustices they face at home and in the workplace.

This includes the creation of a new cross-government disability team, which will incorporate the Office for Disability Issues and will sit alongside the Government Equalities Office and Race Disparity Unit in a new equalities hub.

It will also see the government consult on new measures to help employers better support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions.

These include reforming statutory sick pay so it is better enforced and more flexible to encourage a phased return to work.

Plans put forward will also offer small and medium-sized employers a conditional rebate to support those who manage staff on sickness absence and help them get back to work.

Commenting on the new plans, Ms May said: “My determination to identify and tackle injustices, wherever they exist in society, remains as strong as ever.

“So I am proud to announce new measures to break down barriers faced by disabled people, whether in employment, housing or elsewhere.

“We all have a crucial role – businesses, government and civil society – in working together to ensure that disabled people get the support they need, and go as far as their talents can take them.”