Rica (Research Institute for Consumer Affairs)

General information

Rica carries out research and publishes information to enable disabled and older people to live independently.

This includes:

-- evaluation - user and technical tests, surveys and other assessments carried out on a wide range of products and services
-- publication of guides for disabled consumers
-- research commissioned by other organisations, but of ultimate value to the disabled consumer
-- improving the standards of products and services by making manufacturers, service providers and regulators aware of the needs of older and disabled people

Rica staff design and manage all its research, although specialised services are commissioned from appropriate organisations and individuals.

Working for change:

Rica is also actively involved with a number of groups and working parties, specifically concerned with consumer issues around product and services for older and disabled people, including:

-- ANEC (European Association for the Co-ordination of Consumer Representation in Standardisation): Special Needs Working Group, Domestic Appliances Working Group
-- British Standards Institution
-- EIID (European Institute for Inclusive Design)
-- National Information Forum
-- UKIID (United Kingdom Institute for Inclusive Design)