TIME is running out for businesses in Kent who have so far failed to address new laws on disability discrimination.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) already provides statutory rights to more than nine million disabled people. By October 1, any organisation providing goods and services to the public must have taken reasonable steps to remove physical barriers that could restrict access for disabled people. Failure to comply could cost up to £50,000.

The Navigator Group, based in Maidstone, is a disability training and access audit specialist who offer help to firms on improving their services to disabled people.

Brendan O’Gorman, director of access services, said: “Our advice to business is act now and contact us for peace of mind. The earlier you act, the more time you have to get things right.

“Drawing on our knowledge of the law and our expertise in risk assessment and legal compliance, we have developed advanced access solutions to help organisations identify disability access problems and solve them.”

Mr O’Gorman said that contrary to popular belief, the DDA does not only cover wheelchair access to buildings, but is also concerned with access to services, jobs and information. Other misconceptions include the cost of building modifications.

He added: “Kent businesses worry that making changes will be expensive, but alteration can be cheap and simple. It’s also worth pointing out that by making a few basic alterations, companies can tap into the £50 billion annual spending power of Britain’s nine million disabled people, while failing to do anything could see you in court and paying a hefty fine.”