The initiation of an access audit will be crucial to its success. A thorough understanding – by both the client and the auditor – of why the audit is being undertaken will inform the way the audit is conducted.

The client may produce a brief setting out his or her reasons for commissioning the audit. Not every client will want the same thing from their audit, and some may set certain prerequisites for the work. Briefs commonly fall into the following three categories:

• Specified by client: The client might already have decided the scope, remit, budget and timescale of the work, therefore is likely to set a very narrow brief. There can be downsides associated with this approach, because it may be necessary to pay more attention to a particular element than the client anticipated. If this turns out to be the case, it is worth enquiring about the possibility of any flexibility.

• Negotiated between client/auditor: Where the brief is initially an open one, the client and auditor should work through, agree and note their decisions on a range of issues. This will provide a vital reference point throughout the exercise so that both parties can ensure a comprehensive, responsible and effective outcome.

• Required by funders: When seeking planning permission for structural changes or applying for a grant for capital projects, the approving authority may require an access audit to be undertaken and relevant works incorporated into the programme. This is certainly the case for grants from the Big Lottery Fund and Arts Council.