RE: Telcos don't tell about disabled policies
I'd agree that things are getting worse. I'm Deaf and SHOULD be able to use my mobile textphone and typetalk. After eventually getting the right phone (which they knew f**k all about) and then having to take it back to get the software, they also tried to get me to change a landline from BT to save money. I don't have a landline, and I'd already mentioned that to the assistant!! I'm Deaf before the phone I relied on text messaging.
I still now rely on text messaging!
Anyway after getting the correct phone/software it now turns out probably only people with mobile phone contracts can use the 18002 prefix to call me, and even then, it's a total lottery between mobile providers and how you pay your bill.
Companies frequently block access to stop their staff calling the prefix, so to be honest, I've given up!!!
Ofcom will do nothing as I've complained about my experience and not even had a response.
Based on the fact that the article seems to suggest people are lacking any information about disabled people, in more recent times, my doorbell is a flashing beacon (it flashes a light instead of ringing), yet you'd be suprised how many companies (I assume) knock on the door and post "while you were out cards".
One guy did say he knew I was Deaf and said he shouted loudly through my letter box so I'd know he was there (!) but another was shocked how I knew he'd pressed the doorbell while I was hoovering (despite we both could see the flashing beacon)
Do people not have doorbells anymore? (or do people not know Deaf people have visual doorbells), or is that people just don't see disabilities anymore?
If your blind and need directory assistance, the number is 195. I think if your hearing and have problem dialing numbers, the operator can connect you via 198, although i suspect most phones have speed dial these days.