_Accessible homes: Knight Frank partners with AccessiblePRS to improve inclusion in property sector

AccessiblePRS is catalysing access and inclusion in the property sector by increasing the supply of wheelchair-accessible housing in the UK, levelling the playing field for older and disabled renters to find suitable properties, and changing the narrative around accessibility so that the mainstream property sector understands its relevance and benefits.

The organisation provides insight and solution-led approaches to landlords, investors, agents, developers and renters to familiarise and normalise accessibility and inclusion, giving real meaning to often-used terms of community, place-making and sustainability.

As part of this partnership, we'll join the organisation’s Accessible Letting Scheme and introduce a range of initiatives across our lettings business, including:

• Using standardised key phrases and words related to accessibility on property listings
  
  
• Training for all staff to understand obstacles to inclusion in lettings; understand disabled renters’ needs; identify potentially suitable properties and provide clearer online information.
  
  
• Identifying PRS champions across the firm’s lettings business
  
  
• Updating how we present floorplans, property listings and photography to ensure clarity for potential tenants
  
  
• Creating inclusive office displays
  
  
• A dedicated accessible lettings page on the firm’s website
  
  

Beverley Kennard, Head of Lettings Operations at Knight Frank, says: “We recognise there is an industry-wide problem when it comes to supporting those with accessible housing needs. Our partnership with AccessiblePRS will enable us to make positive changes, which will open up the viewing process for those with different accessibility needs. We're committed to ensuring the best possible customer experience for our diverse range of clients and look forward to working with the AccessiblePRS team to achieve this.”

Guy Harris, Founder of AccessiblePRS, commented: “I’m delighted to be working with Knight Frank, whose people have been so engaged and focused. Their early recognition of both the social and commercial opportunities of including more people with diverse housing needs will have a wider influence on property. I value their leadership and influence.”

We'll start rolling out the new initiatives across our lettings business this month and will also consider opportunities for expanding the programme to other areas of the business in due course.