Steven Mifsud

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.

Steven says: “Born profoundly deaf and then a subsequent cochlear implant user, I have experienced the impact of social exclusion in society. I have built my career and personal mission towards increasing awareness and the ultimate objective is an inclusive world in which anyone can participate.”

From creating the UK’s first ever Quiet Room on the rail network for autistic people with Virgin Trains to advising on the introduction of Changing Places facilities across the country, millions of people daily use services or buildings that Steven and his team have audited. Over 900 schools, hundreds of GP and dental practices, UNESCO World Heritage sites and numerous local authorities are part of an extensive client base. In Steven’s ongoing drive to promote inclusive sports, Direct Access are sponsors for Nantwich Town Wolves Vision Impaired Football Team.

Steven studied architecture at Brighton University and his expertise is sought after as a speaker and writer, especially on the new 2018 accessibility guidelines: British Standards BS 8300. Last year Steven was named International Trader of the Year by 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. This international world fair will take up a site of two square miles, with pavilions from many different countries. 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. To support this, Steven opened an office and established a team in Dubai.