Steven Mifsud
Chairman, Direct Access
Steven founded disability accessibility consultancy Direct Access in 2004. Working with organisations to improve the accessibility of their buildings and services has taken him all over the world. In the last year, he has formed the Direct Access Group with separate divisions in consultancy, media and products.
From creating the UK’s first Quiet Room on the rail network for autistic people to advising on the introduction of Changing Places facilities across the country, millions of people daily use services or buildings that Direct Access has audited. More than 1000 schools, hundreds of GP and dental practices, UNESCO World Heritage sites and numerous local authorities are part of an extensive client base.
Steven studied architecture at Brighton University and his expertise is sought after as a speaker and writer. In the last year, Steven has spoken and promoted inclusion in Canada, Qatar, Poland, Dubai and the US. Steven has won awards including Insider International Trade Award, International Trader of the Year from South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, Nantwich Town Council awarded him the Salt of the Earth accolade for his work for the town and he was nominated for the Northern Powerhouse awards.
In 2018, Direct Access became the Universal Design Consultants for Expo 2020 Dubai with Steven being appointed as ‘Project Director’ for Universal Design. Direct Access are embedding accessibility throughout, reviewing designs from architectural firms involved to make sure they adhere to the Dubai Universal Design Code and international best practice.
Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, Direct Access has been supporting disability organisations and care homes with vital PPE. Steven has also been speaking on the impact of accessibility for disabled people.
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“I am delighted to have made the Power 100 list for the second consecutive year. For billions of people, the year 2020 has been a significant challenge due to the pandemic. Even more so for people who have an impairment or have additional needs, it is even more important now that as a society we are inclusive regardless of race, gender or disability.”