Archived decisions

Contact: Eric Smith, Education Officer SEN, 01962 846245

1 Summary

1.1 The following decisions are sought:

That the Executive Member, Education:

1. Approves the attached as Hampshire's Accessibility Strategy for 2003-2006;

2. Agrees to its publication, and circulation to all bodies listed in Appendix A.

2 Reason

2.1.1 The Disability Discrimination Act 1995, as amended by the SEN and Disability Act 2001, requires all LEAs to have an Accessibility Strategy, initially for the period 2003 - 2006. A draft Strategy was drawn up in accordance with the guidance issued in July 2002 by the Department for Education and Skills in "Accessible Schools: Planning to increase access to schools for disabled pupils".

2.1.2 The attached Strategy for 2003 sets out how the County Council intends to fulfil its planning duties under the Act, and draws on and incorporates existing strategies, plans and policies.

2.1.3 The draft was circulated widely for comment, and the attached Strategy has been revised, taking into account the comments received. (Additions to the original draft made following the consultation are highlighted in bold print in the attached Strategy.)

2.1.4 The draft Strategy has been favourably received. A summary of responses was reported to the Policy Review Committee on 20 May 2003.

3 Other options considered and rejected - not applicable.

4 Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted - none.

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - not applicable.

6 Reasons for the matter being dealt with if urgent - not applicable.

Approved by Date of decision

Councillor D Allen