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Universal design aims to reduce environmental barriers and enhance usability of buildings for all people, particularly those with disabilities. There are known challenges relating to the evaluation of universal design and evidence supporting this concept is limited. This study aimed to gather information on current practice and what stakeholders perceive as important to universal design evaluation. A mixed methods approach was employed, and data were collected via online survey (n = 157) and semi-structured interviews (n = 37). Participants included industry professionals, policy makers, government officials, academics, and people with disabilities. Just over one-third of participants stated that they had experience of evaluating universal design in public built environments. Checklists were most commonly used, yet participants expressed concern with their suitability for this purpose. Almost all participants perceived evaluation of universal design as important, citing its value to advocacy, professional development and strengthening the evidence base of universal design. Findings from this study highlight a tension between a desire for efficiency and consistency, as offered by a checklist approach, and the adoption of a holistic and multidisciplinary method of evaluation that encompasses the complexity of universal design application.

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Objective To investigate the perceived value of handrails and how they are used in Australian aged care facilities (ACFs). Such information aims to contribute to the body of knowledge available about handrails, their design features and application. Methods This study adopted a descriptive cross‐sectional research design. Online surveys were distributed to members of Australian professional networks, collecting information about handrail use, mobility supports and handrail design in ACFs. Results There were 112 participants (80% female), aged 18‐55 years or older. Many identified that handrails in ACF corridors are used by a residents, staff and visitors, and that circular‐shaped handrails should be installed in ACF corridors to assist with mobility and safety. Conclusion Handrails in ACF corridors offer an alternate support to those who experience an unexpected loss of balance and those without or unable to use a mobility aid, ultimately enabling users’ mobility and assisting staff to carry out work duties.

The built environment has long been recognised as a significant determinant of social inclusion and participation of people who experience disability. Despite existence of anti-discrimination legislation and development of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with a Disability, many individuals continue to experience inequitable access to their communities. Using a qualitative approach, this study aimed to explore the lived experiences of people who use Changing Places facilities within Victoria, Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four participants regarding their experiences of using Changing Places facilities. Findings from this study further consolidate existing research that highlight social inequities experienced by people with severe and profound physical disabilities. Findings in this preliminary study can also support the development and expansion of Changing Places facilities, not only as a means of meeting legal obligations within our community, but also as an approach towards improving social inclusion and participation of people with severe and profound physical disabilities.