About Us

The Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (CEUD) was established by the National Disability Authority (NDA) in January 2007 under the Disability Act 2005.


Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, size or disability. This includes public places in the built environment such as buildings, streets or spaces that the public have access to; products and services provided in those places; and systems that are available including information and communications technology (ICT).
(Disability Act, 2005)

The Centre's Vision

The Centre is dedicated to the principle of universal access, enabling people in Ireland to participate in a society that takes account of human difference and to interact with their environment to the best of their ability.

  1. Standards

    To contribute to the development and promotion of standards in Universal Design, the Centre will:

    • Stimulate and inform research by commissioning,collaborating in and conducting studies;
    • Participate in and contribute to relevant standardisation work, with national, European and international standards bodies;
    • Provide expert advice and information to relevant stakeholders involved in implementing and promoting standards;
    • Encourage compliance with national and international standards in Universal Design.

  2. Education and Professional Development

    The Centre will have responsibility to:

    • Ensure the development of appropriate Universal Design courses, in liaison with relevant academic, certifying and professional bodies;
    • Support and promote the introduction and integration of the principles of Universal Design in educational and training courses;
    • Ensure, as far as practicable, the principles and application of Universal Design are included in examinations recognised by professional bodies.

  3. Awareness

    To raise awareness of Universal Design, the Centre will:

    • Develop and maintain a knowledge base of good practice in Universal Design;
    • Promote public awareness of the difficulties encountered by people in relation to the environment;
    • Promote an understanding of Universal Design.