Consumer Information
Information Guides
Consumer Information:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
How can I search for accessible places to visit in Scotland?
Whether you are planning a meal out, a weekend trip or day out to one of Scotland’s parks, there are websites and ‘apps’ that you can use in your search for an accessible venue or activity.
Euan’s Guide is a disabled access review website and app that aims to ‘remove the fear of the unknown’ and inspire people to try new places.
OpenBritain is your website that provides information on accessible tourism in the UK and includes day trips and tourist attractions.
Disabled Go provide access information on venues across the UK and Ireland.
For more information on accessible places to visit in Scotland search our Scottish Disability Directory and select the ‘Holidays/Respite’ category.
How can I get a RADAR key?
The National Key Scheme (NKS), often referred to as RADAR keys, offer disabled people independent access to locked public accessible toilets around the country. You can buy from Disability Rights UK either over the phone or through their website.
You can also purchase RADAR keys through some chemists and online.
For further information see our Accessible Toilets information guide or the Disability Rights UK website.
Call the Disability Information Scotland helpline on: 0300 323 9961
What can I do if I feel that I have been discriminated against?
The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people from discrimination at work and in wider society. You’re disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities. There is detailed guidance here Equality Act Guidance.
If you feel you have been treated unfairly there a number of steps that you can take. You can speak to an advisor at an advice agency such as your local citizens advice bureau or you can call the Equality Advice Support Service (EASS) who can help people with equality and human rights issues.
If you need employment advice, ACAS provide free and impartial information and advice to employers and employees about employment law. You should always get advice before discussing your problem with your employer. You can call their helpline on 0300 123 1100.
Making a complaint about other discrimination
There are several steps that you can take when making a complaint about other matters:
- Follow the organisation’s complaints procedure and say what you would like to happen next. For example an apology, changes to the way they do things or money as compensation. You can use a template form available from the Equality Advisory Support Service.
- Ask an advocate to support you to say what you want to say or explain what you want to say if you are unable to speak for yourself. Contact the Scottish Independent Advocacy Service.
- Get advice about the options, costs and consequences of taking court action.
If you need further information, or help to contact your local advice service please call our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
Consumer Information:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
| Organisation | Description |
|---|---|
| 25% ME Group | Aims: To offer support and advocacy services to severely affected M.E. sufferers and their carers. Services provided: Advocacy via telephone, or face-to-face (locally) only Helpline for members and their carers offering emotional support Newsletters tw… |
| 27000 | We are open 8 till 8pm all week and weekends however if you need us please email and we will be happy to help. ‘A venue for hire in the heart of Hamilton’ Our venue is available for the whole community and we aim to keep the costs down. A Space… |
| A2i Transcription Services | Description of service: A2i is an experienced transcription company who transcribe print documents into Braille, Audio, Large Print, e-text, Accessible PDF, Easy Read and BSL video. We also produce tactile diagrams, graphs, and maps and translate docum… |
| AAT (GB) Ltd | Description of service and products sold: Provide solutions for climbing stairs using powered stair climbers and stair climbing equipment, as well as evacuation and help with disabled access issue. They can also provide information on the Disability Di… |
| Abbeyfield Scotland Limited | Provides housing and support for older people in various locations across Scotland |
| Abbotsford Care Homes | Aims: To provide nursing and residential care for those unable to stay at home. Services provided: There are seven nursing homes and two residential homes within the Fife area. Each home provides physical care and services for people with dementia or l… |
| Aberdeen Airport Disabled Access Guide | Access guide detailing facilities for disabled people at Aberdeen Airport |
| Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau | Provide information to people living in the local area |
| Aberdeenshire North Access Panel | Aims: To assist and advise in the creation and maintenance of access provision for persons with a disability throughout Aberdeenshire North with reference to buildings, environment and access approaches in general. Services provided: Disability awarene… |
| Aberfoyle Memorial Hall | Description There is a large hall which has a maximum capacity of 100 and a small hall that has a maximum capacity for 20 people. Kitchen facilities available. No catering services. Accessible facilities No disabled parking and only 4 spaces. More car… |
