Debenhams sued under disability act

Friday, 29 July 2005 12:00 AM

Debenhams will become the first retailer to be sued under new disability discrimination laws.

Wheelchair user Greg Jackson is suing the high street chain for failing to improve access in its Derby store, under the Disability Discrimination Act.

Mr Jackson, 43, is claiming he has been denied access to a section of the menswear department - which can only be reached via a set of steps.

"It's unacceptable that Debenhams are refusing to make any adjustments for disabled people," Mr Jackson said.

Several requests for change in the store were made Mr Jackson, dating back to 2004.

The case is being supported by the Disability Rights Council (DRC). Chairman Bert Massie said Debenhams had failed to make changes unlike competitors.

In a statement, Debenhams said: "We have carried out an independent audit of the Derby store, and have met and worked with the Disability Rights Commission. We await their response."

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