Mobile group gets around

Click here to read Susanna's letter.

I'm sorry to hear of Susanna's experiences in shops and also with dropped kerbs.

In Worthing, we have a very active Access and Mobility Group, of which I am secretary.

We deal with all matters which affect the less able-bodied in our community, whether they are residents in the town or visitors.

As a group, we've achieved a great deal in terms of better access for the less able-bodied into all kinds of premises.

Members of our group include those with varied disabilities ranging from physical, visually-impaired, hard of hearing and learning difficulties.

We also have a Worthing Borough Council access officer and two councillors on board.

Membership of this kind means that we not only have all aspects of disability awareness, but also the backing necessary when negotiations are needed with premises who are not compliant with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act.

We have a good relationship with West Sussex County Council with whom we are in constant contact regarding matters such as dropped kerbs, pictured above, overhanging branches on pavements which are dangerous to the visually-impaired and disabled parking bays.

However, none of the work we do would be possible without complaints such as those made by Susanna being brought to our attention.

We need to know where problems arise for the less able-bodied in our community in order that we may deal with them.

We are constantly keeping on top of the issues faced by such people, but without hearing the exact nature of their complaints we are powerless to help.

Twice-yearly we produce a newsletter, and this is distributed throughout the town '“ in the library, at the Town Hall, at Worthing Hospital and in various doctors' and dental surgeries.

Our contact details are in there, and I would urge everyone who has an issue which they would like the group to deal with, please contact me on my telephone number '“ 01903 217934, or by email [email protected].

The Disability Discrimination Act states that access should be equal for everybody, and our group is constantly striving to make this happen in Worthing.

Cllr. Norah Fisher

High Street

Tarring

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