In recent years designers are taking on the many challenges of providing for the needs and expectations of an increasing ageing population. There is also encouragement in the promotion of our own natural diversity and an acceptance that people from differing backgrounds or with differing levels of ability will not be excluded from mainstream society.

As an architect I have an interest in designing environments to facilitate easy access for people of all ages and abilities. Inclusive Design puts people at the centre of the process and is a general approach to designing in which we ensure that our services address the needs of the widest possible audience, irrespective of age or ability. Consultation is important and I consider the involvement of users and other potential customers to be an essential part of  the design process in order to understand all their needs.