Accessible housing? One man's battle to get a foot through the door

In 2000 – 2001, 18% of adults in England aged 16 and over reported having some form of disability, 5% of whom reported having a serious disability. The most common type of disability reported amongst adults was loco motor disability. Current legislation on housing design, to incorporate the needs of those individuals with physical disabilities, is contained within Part M of the Building Regulations. These requirements have had a significant impact upon dwelling design. This case study documents the experiences of a disabled man occupying a brand new home. Forming part of a wider research project, this study identifies how current Building Regulations only go some way in accommodating the needs of those with a disability and that in some ‘parts’ these regulations display a lack of systems thinking.