Building owners, occupiers, service providers and local authorities have less than four months to ensure their buildings and facilities meet the terms of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Aware that for many businesses and authorities this will mean purchasing and installing disability products, First Capital Finance has launched a special DDA Financial Package, which offers organisations a straightforward and cost effective way of funding equipment through either leasing or hire purchase.

Available for purchases over £5,000, companies and authorities utilising First Capital Finance’s DDA Financial Package will be able to spread payments over a period of two to five years. Using this method to finance the purchase of disability equipment will not only ensure they receive the best possible terms but also will make certain they do not use up their cash or overdraft facility.

The Disability Discrimination Act, Section 21.2 states: "Where a physical feature makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for a disabled person to make use of a service or building, it is the duty of the provider of that service to take steps that are reasonable to remedy the situation.”

Those needing to comply with the Act include offices, restaurants, factories, public buildings, shops, hotels and educational establishments. The DDA will be legislated by the Disability Rights Commission, which started work in April 2000. Their main areas of influence are to carry out investigations, assist disabled people to take cases to court and arbitrate in disputes.

Commenting, David Mogg, Director, First Capital Finance says: “First Capital Finance is aware that many companies are concerned about how they are going to finance capital equipment, such as platform lifts, in order to ensure they comply with the DDA regulations. As a company with experience in financing such projects, for a wide range of applications in both the private and public sectors, we can meet with clients and come up with the best possible option for them.”