QR Codes: The Latest Ingredient in NI's Accessibility Recipe

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council have expressed keen interest in an accessibility initiative that Derry City and Strabane District Council initially spearheaded.

Following a full council meeting this evening, Councillors Darryl Wilson and Leanne Peacock have advocated further exploring this concept across the Borough.

The initiative, formally proposed and passed at a Derry City and Strabane District Council meeting on 24th July 2024, aims to make local hospitality venues more accessible to blind and partially sighted residents. Under this proposal, the council will collaborate with local establishments to ensure QR codes of menus are available at the entrance, thus welcoming all patrons, including those with visual impairments.

In championing this initiative, Derry City and Strabane District Council acknowledged the invaluable expertise of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), whose vision is for a world where blind and partially sighted individuals can participate equally.

The council also recognised the contributions of Angel Eyes NI, a charity dedicated to supporting children and young people with visual impairments and their families. Through engagement with these stakeholders, the council is committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring all menu formats adhere to best practice guidelines for visual impairments.

As part of their advocacy, the council has also committed to reaching out to other councils across Northern Ireland, encouraging them to adopt similar practices and become 'visually aware' districts.

This move could set a precedent for broader regional adoption, creating a more inclusive environment for all residents.