Centre for Accessible Environments

The Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) has led thinking on inclusive design in the UK for over 50 years.

Shared mission

The organisation - which is part of Habinteg Housing Association - works across the UK, and internationally, with corporate organisations, the public sector, and cultural and heritage organisations. It's one of the leading providers of access and inclusive design consultancy and training in the country.

CAE has a shared vision with Habinteg to drive greater accessibility and inclusivity of all buildings, environments and services, so that disabled people can be part of an inclusive society and have choice and control over daily life. Its work in the housing sector includes supporting Habinteg developments, local authorities, developers, housing associations and statutory bodies through housing design appraisals, and providing support to plan and deliver accessible homes.

The Centre offers technical consultancy and training in inclusive design. This includes access audits, design appraisals, and a wide range of technical  training courses from inclusive design awareness to more in-depth technical access standards. In 2025, CAE launched its new 90 minute Inclusive Design Webinar series to provide a convenient introduction for anyone seeking professional development in key areas of inclusive design. 

The business launched the Pathways Academy in 2020. This fully-funded training programme supports young disabled people into inclusion-related employment, helping to grow the next generation of access talent.

CAE offers clients the chance to book time with its Access Panel which can advise on best practice concerning access and inclusion of the built environment and services, as well as how to mitigate potential barriers using the social model of disability.

Services

Find out more about CAE, its consultancy, training, research and resources.