After the minutes of the previous meeting were accepted, it was confirmed that as a result of the Access Exhibition, the Arcade Cafe had brought out large print menus and the Angel Lane Chip Shop were planning for a portable ramp. In another development, Dave Kitson, the electrical shop on Great Dockray, had installed a ramp into the existing step. Some members of the group were disappointed with the press coverage of the event. It was decided that the chairman would contact Tanni Grey-Thompson at a later date if the Forum decides another event is merited and worked out.
After Ray told the Forum of the details required by Capita for improvements to Pelican crossings, Shirley Grisedale offered to provide such information, and Ray would set up a meeting with Capita.
The Warehouse has been shortlisted to be surveyed in the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide with an emphasis on the first floor access.
Ray and representatives of Capita met with Pategill residents to decide on locations for drop kerbs. A final costed list will be forwarded when complete.
A meeting of the DES reference group took place on Monday April 28 for the first review. It was accepted, apart from an item on ‘Accomodation Review’ and has been published on the council website.
Ray told the Forum he had surveyed 25 properties in Alston and these results will be added to the ‘comparative report’ with some mention of the difficulty of access because of the hilly terrain. He also confirmed Patrica Bell had been informed of the Forums decision regarding the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users group. Together with Greg Sadler, he had agreed a basic survey and shortlist for the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide’. It was suggested, and accepted, that the Co-op be included, and Ray was hoping to complete these within the next month.
Terry Barritt reported on the exhibition of the planned Booths supermarket at Bowmans Carpet Showroom, and felt the plans were good, except for a possible shortage of disabled car parking.
Ray showed members planning applications at Tebay, Clifton and Tirril. He will forward the Forums comments to the relevant planning case officer. Members raised concerns about access to new holiday homes in Lazonby and Whitbarrow. Ray has queried these with the Council Building Control Officers. In his last report as Access Officer, Ray outlined the work that had been achieved with the ‘disability access grants’ and expressed regret that this fund had been axed. He went on to outline how his post might be replaced, and told members of his recent meeting with Sir Bert Massey, the former chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, who clearly preferred an ‘Access Officer’ post being retained in local authorities. Ray outlined the pressures faced by local authorities to cover all aspects of equality, but would agree with Sir Bert Massey on this issue. The Forum expressed a very strong preference for the position to remain unchanged, and the Chairman undertook to write a strong letter to the council to state this. This letter has been sent by email.
Ray confirmed 24 members and friends were booked on the Lady Wakefield for the 18th of June, with transport arrangements to be finalised.
Terry Barritt then raised the issue of access into the Halifax, and the apparent reluctance of staff to consider a portable ramp. Ray outlined past discussions he had had with the Halifax regarding the matter.
The next meeting of the Forum will be August 5th.
Wednesday, 25 June 2008
May Meeting
After the February minutes were accepted, the chairman gave a review of the exhibition and outlined some positive outcomes, including that the landlord of the Woolpack had asked about highlighting internal steps and the Arcade Cafe now planned to produce some large print menus. It was agreed it was also a useful networking opportunity. It was suggested, and agreed, that any future events be delayed while a better advertising strategy was created. The chairman suggested contacting Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson for a future event.
Ray requested that members let him know of any drop kerbs they think are required. He would meet with Ivy Wilkinson to assess requirements at Pategill estate. After Shirley Grisedale highlighted problems with Pelican crossings and knowing when cars have stopped, a meeting with Capita was suggested. Maintainence of footpaths, such as outside the Co-op and the Shell Garage, was raised as a problem which needs to be addressed.
Prior to a DES Reference Group meeting in April, Ray stated that most objectives were on target, the three main town surveys were complete ahead of schedule and Alston would be surveyed in May. A Forum sub-committee had completed impact assessments of the high priority Council policies and strategies and would monitor and quality assess in the future. Of the 18 objectives, most were progressing satisfactorily, and the review would be published on the council website. It was agreed Ray, Greg and Terry would look to complete the Alston survey in May.
Attention turned to the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group, and after discussion, it was decided any further meetings would be arranged only if there was an issue specific to that group. Some members had already joined the Forum which it was felt could deal with most of the relevant issues. Members would be informed.
Ray agreed to devise a survey for the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide, based on ‘disabledgo’ surveys, and confirm the database was comprehensive. A sub-group would discuss this on May 1st. He also confirmed, with Doreen, that the Lazonby railway station ramp is completed. Northern Rail have confirmed a ‘hand over’ will take place, and will inform the Forum of any plans for publicity.
It was then agreed Terry Barritt would attend an exhibition of plans for a Booths food store at Bowmans Carpets and report back to the Forum on his findings.
In his report, Ray Beare informed the Forum that several grant offers had been cancelled and re-allocated to provide induction loops in a number of churches and also a stairlift in Nenthead Village Hall. He is also discussing a grant with Gossipgate Gallery, Alston, for a wheelchair accessible WC. Ray went on to inform the Forum he will be leaving the Council at the end of July.
The Forum event on the Lady Wakefield was next on the agenda, with Ray confirming Council funding for members of the Forum, with an initial budget for 15 people, but Ray acknowledged this may need to be revised.
Terry Barritt raised the issue of access to the Halifax, and after discussion, it was agreed a more direct approach should be adopted in this case, and also with the Warehouse. Access to Penrith Building Society is under discussion with that business. The heavy doors at the rear of Woolworths were mentioned and it was suggested an approach be made with a view to installing automatic doors.
As the meeting concluded, the date of 3rd June was announced for the next meeting.
Ray requested that members let him know of any drop kerbs they think are required. He would meet with Ivy Wilkinson to assess requirements at Pategill estate. After Shirley Grisedale highlighted problems with Pelican crossings and knowing when cars have stopped, a meeting with Capita was suggested. Maintainence of footpaths, such as outside the Co-op and the Shell Garage, was raised as a problem which needs to be addressed.
Prior to a DES Reference Group meeting in April, Ray stated that most objectives were on target, the three main town surveys were complete ahead of schedule and Alston would be surveyed in May. A Forum sub-committee had completed impact assessments of the high priority Council policies and strategies and would monitor and quality assess in the future. Of the 18 objectives, most were progressing satisfactorily, and the review would be published on the council website. It was agreed Ray, Greg and Terry would look to complete the Alston survey in May.
Attention turned to the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group, and after discussion, it was decided any further meetings would be arranged only if there was an issue specific to that group. Some members had already joined the Forum which it was felt could deal with most of the relevant issues. Members would be informed.
Ray agreed to devise a survey for the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide, based on ‘disabledgo’ surveys, and confirm the database was comprehensive. A sub-group would discuss this on May 1st. He also confirmed, with Doreen, that the Lazonby railway station ramp is completed. Northern Rail have confirmed a ‘hand over’ will take place, and will inform the Forum of any plans for publicity.
It was then agreed Terry Barritt would attend an exhibition of plans for a Booths food store at Bowmans Carpets and report back to the Forum on his findings.
In his report, Ray Beare informed the Forum that several grant offers had been cancelled and re-allocated to provide induction loops in a number of churches and also a stairlift in Nenthead Village Hall. He is also discussing a grant with Gossipgate Gallery, Alston, for a wheelchair accessible WC. Ray went on to inform the Forum he will be leaving the Council at the end of July.
The Forum event on the Lady Wakefield was next on the agenda, with Ray confirming Council funding for members of the Forum, with an initial budget for 15 people, but Ray acknowledged this may need to be revised.
Terry Barritt raised the issue of access to the Halifax, and after discussion, it was agreed a more direct approach should be adopted in this case, and also with the Warehouse. Access to Penrith Building Society is under discussion with that business. The heavy doors at the rear of Woolworths were mentioned and it was suggested an approach be made with a view to installing automatic doors.
As the meeting concluded, the date of 3rd June was announced for the next meeting.
Monday, 25 February 2008
ACCESS EXHIBITION
Eden Access For All Forum are hosting an exhibition on Tuesday, March 4th, at the St Andrews Parish Rooms. Together with a number of local disability organisations, we are looking to address some of the simple, quick and easy ways business owners can make their businesses more accessible to a wide range of disabled people, such as wheelchair users, visually and hearing impaired. There will be photographic and written presentations to demonstrate that making places such as shops and cafes need not be as expensive as you might think. There will also be an oppurtunity for people to discuss the specific needs of their business, as well as the specific needs of disabled people. It promises to be a very interesting and potentially important day for disability issues in Eden and everyone is welcome, and encouraged, to attend.
Saturday, 29 December 2007
October Meeting
After the August meeting minutes had been accepted, Terry Barritt asked if the problem with disabled parking at Southend Road Leisure Centre could be discussed as agreed. Ray Beare told the Forum he had contacted the manager, and would report back to the next meeting.
The Forum was then given a presentation by Stephanie Stables, Cumbria Police Authority, and Gary Lawrie of Cumbria Police. The theme of the presentation was 'Disability Equality within the Police Service'. After Stephanie explained the different roles of the Police Authority and the Constabulary, four questions were put forward for comment by members of the Forum. These were Hate Crime, Bad Experiences, Good Experiences, and Accessibility of the Service. Jean Riley raised the issue of deaf people contacting the police via phone text. All comments will inform the Police Service Disability Equality Scheme.
Doreen Jones reported on the last meeting of the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group. which covered insurance, vehicle maintainence, and DVLA registration. It was regarded as a successful meeting, and the next will be arranged for 2 months time, with a wider audience invited.
Discussion turned to the Penrith Access Survey. There had been an increase from 237 properties surveyed in 2005 to 272. Analysis of the results was not complete, but indicated a 5% rise in properties with level access, although the percentage of properties with formally trained staff was a disappointing 22%. Ray Beare and Greg Sadler would meet later to confirm the results and begin preparing the report.
The Kirkby Stephen survey was scheduled for the next month. However, in an initial appraisal, Ray felt 35 of the 65 properties to be surveyed were inaccessible. Ray also queried the number of properties surveyed in Appleby, which stands at 34. 53% of these were deemed accessible.
Thoughts turned to the proposed 'Pubs and Restaurants Guide'. A decision was taken to delay this until next year, due to time scales involved and current commitments.
Ray Beare went on to report that the Scotts Fish and Chip Shop drop kerb was a priority in the latest Capita program, which was due to commence shortly.
Unfortunately, Charles Thornton had to report that Ullswater Steamers were unable to provide for a social event as they are currently too busy.
In his report, Ray explained most of his time was taken up with the Penrith Access Survey and the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group. However, he was able to confirm that the Countess Pillar, on the A66, was now accessible.
Terry Barritt hadn't found any planning applications relevant to the Forum. Ray has commented on an application for a restaurant on the A66.
A policy for impact assessments had been drawn up by Policy Officer Oliver Shimell. Doreen, Marion and Greg offered to help with these assessments, and it was hoped a meeting with Oliver could be arranged.
The venue for the Christmas lunch was discussed, with Stonybeck Inn and The Lowther Castle being suggested. Latterly, however, neither of these were suitable due to accessibilty issues. An alternative was to be found, and hopefully booked for Tuesday December 11.
Finally, the members agreed to hold a meeting on the 4th of December to finalise any business before the end of the year, and to examine prospects and ideas for 2008.
The Forum was then given a presentation by Stephanie Stables, Cumbria Police Authority, and Gary Lawrie of Cumbria Police. The theme of the presentation was 'Disability Equality within the Police Service'. After Stephanie explained the different roles of the Police Authority and the Constabulary, four questions were put forward for comment by members of the Forum. These were Hate Crime, Bad Experiences, Good Experiences, and Accessibility of the Service. Jean Riley raised the issue of deaf people contacting the police via phone text. All comments will inform the Police Service Disability Equality Scheme.
Doreen Jones reported on the last meeting of the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group. which covered insurance, vehicle maintainence, and DVLA registration. It was regarded as a successful meeting, and the next will be arranged for 2 months time, with a wider audience invited.
Discussion turned to the Penrith Access Survey. There had been an increase from 237 properties surveyed in 2005 to 272. Analysis of the results was not complete, but indicated a 5% rise in properties with level access, although the percentage of properties with formally trained staff was a disappointing 22%. Ray Beare and Greg Sadler would meet later to confirm the results and begin preparing the report.
The Kirkby Stephen survey was scheduled for the next month. However, in an initial appraisal, Ray felt 35 of the 65 properties to be surveyed were inaccessible. Ray also queried the number of properties surveyed in Appleby, which stands at 34. 53% of these were deemed accessible.
Thoughts turned to the proposed 'Pubs and Restaurants Guide'. A decision was taken to delay this until next year, due to time scales involved and current commitments.
Ray Beare went on to report that the Scotts Fish and Chip Shop drop kerb was a priority in the latest Capita program, which was due to commence shortly.
Unfortunately, Charles Thornton had to report that Ullswater Steamers were unable to provide for a social event as they are currently too busy.
In his report, Ray explained most of his time was taken up with the Penrith Access Survey and the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group. However, he was able to confirm that the Countess Pillar, on the A66, was now accessible.
Terry Barritt hadn't found any planning applications relevant to the Forum. Ray has commented on an application for a restaurant on the A66.
A policy for impact assessments had been drawn up by Policy Officer Oliver Shimell. Doreen, Marion and Greg offered to help with these assessments, and it was hoped a meeting with Oliver could be arranged.
The venue for the Christmas lunch was discussed, with Stonybeck Inn and The Lowther Castle being suggested. Latterly, however, neither of these were suitable due to accessibilty issues. An alternative was to be found, and hopefully booked for Tuesday December 11.
Finally, the members agreed to hold a meeting on the 4th of December to finalise any business before the end of the year, and to examine prospects and ideas for 2008.
Wednesday, 26 September 2007
August Meeting
Progress on the blog and newsletter was reported, and a new link from the council website to the blog. Ray Beare had forwarded the groups comments on the Museum Review and the Blue Badge Scheme. Eden Mencap reported they had been granted revenue monies on a three year renewable basis. The progress on Jenkins Field was excellent, all approvals having been obtained and work due to start in September, with only the Parish Council to comment, but with no problems expected.
Discussion turned to the Disability Equality Scheme, and Impact Assessments. The Scheme was approved in December 2006 by full Council. The amended scheme and it's action plan were approved on 29 March 2007 by the Establishment Committee. The relevance assessment had been completed and forwarded to Paul Foote. Impact assessments should be completed by December 2007, after a 'standard methodology' had been agreed.
The Penrith Survey was almost complete. Over 300 premises had been covered, and Ray was to look into any outstanding. Some 'sight' questions were incomplete and Jean Nicholson had offered assistance. The Warehouse lift still doesn't work, and Ray was to talk to the management over this.
The Appleby survey is being analysed and will be launched at the same time as the Penrith Survey. It was agreed that the Kirkby Stephen survey should be completed before the end of August, to allow comparison of all three main towns. Several members volunteered, and the 'Age Concern' bus was to be arranged for Tuesday 28 August. The Survey was expected to take a few hours. Following requests from Tourist Information, the results of the Surveys will be used in a 'Pubs and Restaurants' guide. It will mean extending into rural areas for full coverage, and will be discussed in October. Doreen noted the description for the George Hotel, Penrith, contained in the Cumbria County Council 'accessible venues' website was inaccurate due to the impractical and inaccessible nature of the stairlift for many people.
Capita have finalised their list of dropped kerbs, including those previously reported by the Forum, also two at Friars Rise and Pategill, with another at Temple Sowerby. It was suggested the drop kerb outside Norcroft Guest House was too high and should be examined. Ray Beare has worked with Capita since the last meeting, surveying problems in Pategill and Temple Sowerby.
Charles Thornton is to chase up Ullswater Steamers regarding the Forum Social event, after initial contact by Ray.
A report was given on the Cumbria Disability Network Conference. The main Speaker was Rory Heap, of the DRC, who talked on the Disability Equality Schemes. There was a demonstration of a new search facility on the CCC website and a short talk by Rachael Monk, who had recently fought, and won, a disability discrimination case.
It was agreed to look at the various options for a debate, and plan for early next year. Various possibilities and ideas were raised. Roger covered the breadth of disability and Council involvement. He suggested a strong chairperson would be required.
Greg and Ray reported on a meeting with Anne Cowie of Weardale Access Forum, regarding how to fund the Forum. It was suggested that the present arrangement, and relationship with the Council, be retained and maintained. Doreen suggested help with travel expenses might encourage people from more remote areas to become involved.
In his report, Ray informed the Forum of the following:
The Supplementary Planning Document 'An Accessible and Inclusive Environment' has been adopted by full Council. The 'Adoption Statement' and final document can be viewed on the council website, and at any public library.
The Access Association visit to Trafford Park was successful. It has a fully accessible changing facility, one of two in the country. It is hoped the Southend Road development will include one.
The Chairman of the Council has launched a 'Christmas Card Design Competition'. Barry Cooper, Communications Officer, will liaise with various organisations.
Access to Polling Stations has been raised. A suggestion that all stations be accessible was raised. Some members used postal voting to overcome problems. Ray will raise this once the Surveys are completed.
The Chairman reported discussions had been held with Councillor Patricia Bell, regarding a potential 'Mobility and Scooter Users' meeting. There were some reservations, but the Forum agreed to support the event. The Chairman was to redraft the flyer. The meeting was subsequently arranged for 19 September at the Penrith Leisure Centre.
There were no major planning applications to report, and Terry Barritt agreed to try and look up applications on the Council website, and report his findings to Ray.
A request was made for the Forum to look at parking spaces. This will be raised at the next meeting in October
Discussion turned to the Disability Equality Scheme, and Impact Assessments. The Scheme was approved in December 2006 by full Council. The amended scheme and it's action plan were approved on 29 March 2007 by the Establishment Committee. The relevance assessment had been completed and forwarded to Paul Foote. Impact assessments should be completed by December 2007, after a 'standard methodology' had been agreed.
The Penrith Survey was almost complete. Over 300 premises had been covered, and Ray was to look into any outstanding. Some 'sight' questions were incomplete and Jean Nicholson had offered assistance. The Warehouse lift still doesn't work, and Ray was to talk to the management over this.
The Appleby survey is being analysed and will be launched at the same time as the Penrith Survey. It was agreed that the Kirkby Stephen survey should be completed before the end of August, to allow comparison of all three main towns. Several members volunteered, and the 'Age Concern' bus was to be arranged for Tuesday 28 August. The Survey was expected to take a few hours. Following requests from Tourist Information, the results of the Surveys will be used in a 'Pubs and Restaurants' guide. It will mean extending into rural areas for full coverage, and will be discussed in October. Doreen noted the description for the George Hotel, Penrith, contained in the Cumbria County Council 'accessible venues' website was inaccurate due to the impractical and inaccessible nature of the stairlift for many people.
Capita have finalised their list of dropped kerbs, including those previously reported by the Forum, also two at Friars Rise and Pategill, with another at Temple Sowerby. It was suggested the drop kerb outside Norcroft Guest House was too high and should be examined. Ray Beare has worked with Capita since the last meeting, surveying problems in Pategill and Temple Sowerby.
Charles Thornton is to chase up Ullswater Steamers regarding the Forum Social event, after initial contact by Ray.
A report was given on the Cumbria Disability Network Conference. The main Speaker was Rory Heap, of the DRC, who talked on the Disability Equality Schemes. There was a demonstration of a new search facility on the CCC website and a short talk by Rachael Monk, who had recently fought, and won, a disability discrimination case.
It was agreed to look at the various options for a debate, and plan for early next year. Various possibilities and ideas were raised. Roger covered the breadth of disability and Council involvement. He suggested a strong chairperson would be required.
Greg and Ray reported on a meeting with Anne Cowie of Weardale Access Forum, regarding how to fund the Forum. It was suggested that the present arrangement, and relationship with the Council, be retained and maintained. Doreen suggested help with travel expenses might encourage people from more remote areas to become involved.
In his report, Ray informed the Forum of the following:
The Supplementary Planning Document 'An Accessible and Inclusive Environment' has been adopted by full Council. The 'Adoption Statement' and final document can be viewed on the council website, and at any public library.
The Access Association visit to Trafford Park was successful. It has a fully accessible changing facility, one of two in the country. It is hoped the Southend Road development will include one.
The Chairman of the Council has launched a 'Christmas Card Design Competition'. Barry Cooper, Communications Officer, will liaise with various organisations.
Access to Polling Stations has been raised. A suggestion that all stations be accessible was raised. Some members used postal voting to overcome problems. Ray will raise this once the Surveys are completed.
The Chairman reported discussions had been held with Councillor Patricia Bell, regarding a potential 'Mobility and Scooter Users' meeting. There were some reservations, but the Forum agreed to support the event. The Chairman was to redraft the flyer. The meeting was subsequently arranged for 19 September at the Penrith Leisure Centre.
There were no major planning applications to report, and Terry Barritt agreed to try and look up applications on the Council website, and report his findings to Ray.
A request was made for the Forum to look at parking spaces. This will be raised at the next meeting in October
Saturday, 23 June 2007
June Meeting
The halfway point of the year...where on earth does the time go?
The main points in this meeting were the DES, and the Access Surveys. A report was given on a recent meeting of the DES reference group, and a relevance assessment of the councils Policy and Strategy Documents was put forward for comment. It was agreed that a small sub-group should examine this and consider how to proceed with assessing the ‘impact’ of each policy.
The survey form had been agreed, and names provided by Sound Advice Cumbria and Eden Voluntary Society for the Blind, who might be able to help. Ray Beare agreed to contact them before a meeting to confirm the final groups. Each group will survey one of six areas in the town centre.
Dave Spence of Capita, forwarded a programme of dropped kerbs. These were in Sandgate, outside Scotts Fish Restaurant, Lazonby Main Street between Co-op and Railway station junction, various on Anchor Close/Macadam Way in Penrith, Cookson Court/Newton Road in Penrith, various in Pategill, Penrith, and the junction of Askham Cresent with Friars Road/Close was suggested by a member, as was the right hand side of Friars Road/Close.
The suggestion of a social event for the Forum was raised again. Most of the members realised the benefits of meeting 'outside the office'. I, as chair, suggested that it might allow members to get to know each other better, providing a better understanding between members. After much discussion, Charles Thorntons suggestion of a cruise on the new 'Lady Wakefield', operated by Ullswater Steamers, was the best. Charles has since contacted the company, with the suggestion, with the agreement that the Forum would seek 'mutally beneficial publicity'.
The consultation document for the Penrith Museum Review was presented to the forum. The members agreed with the majority of the recommendations, but 'adaptations option 1' was favoured.
Following a lively debate on the Blue Badge Scheme consultation document, it was agreed certain comments would be put forward, including making the notice 'Front-Display this side uo' e bigger and more obvious. It was also thought that enforcement of disabled parking bays should be improved, and that traffic wardens should be more sympathetic to drivers with a disabibility. Ray Beare would forward these comments by 19th June.
The proposal for a debate on 'The Extremities of Disability' was enthusiastically received. It was sugested this could be a chance to clarify what can often be a 'grey area'. With clarification of the boundaries, it might become clearer how to go beyond them. Speakers will be looked into for this proposed event.
The next discussion was the finance of the forum. The percieved benefits of becoming a charity were explained to members, and Ray briefly described how this might be achieved. I, as chairman, feel that if we were in control of our own funds, we might be able to achieve much more, funding more events and influencing developments with grant assistance as we have done in the past. Ray had examples of Access Groups in the geographical area which are bening run as charities, and it was agreed that he would contact one of these to discuss their experience, to inform any decision the Forum might make.
The last business of the meeting was to inform members of the Disability Network Conference, which five members of the Forum are attending, on the 2nd of July. This is an opportunity to meet likeminded people, publicise the DES and the forums involvement in it. A report will be made to the forum at the next meeting.
_________________________________________________
If anything in this post interests you, or you have a query for myself or the forum, please leave a comment, and I will get back to you.
Greg Sadler
The main points in this meeting were the DES, and the Access Surveys. A report was given on a recent meeting of the DES reference group, and a relevance assessment of the councils Policy and Strategy Documents was put forward for comment. It was agreed that a small sub-group should examine this and consider how to proceed with assessing the ‘impact’ of each policy.
The survey form had been agreed, and names provided by Sound Advice Cumbria and Eden Voluntary Society for the Blind, who might be able to help. Ray Beare agreed to contact them before a meeting to confirm the final groups. Each group will survey one of six areas in the town centre.
Dave Spence of Capita, forwarded a programme of dropped kerbs. These were in Sandgate, outside Scotts Fish Restaurant, Lazonby Main Street between Co-op and Railway station junction, various on Anchor Close/Macadam Way in Penrith, Cookson Court/Newton Road in Penrith, various in Pategill, Penrith, and the junction of Askham Cresent with Friars Road/Close was suggested by a member, as was the right hand side of Friars Road/Close.
The suggestion of a social event for the Forum was raised again. Most of the members realised the benefits of meeting 'outside the office'. I, as chair, suggested that it might allow members to get to know each other better, providing a better understanding between members. After much discussion, Charles Thorntons suggestion of a cruise on the new 'Lady Wakefield', operated by Ullswater Steamers, was the best. Charles has since contacted the company, with the suggestion, with the agreement that the Forum would seek 'mutally beneficial publicity'.
The consultation document for the Penrith Museum Review was presented to the forum. The members agreed with the majority of the recommendations, but 'adaptations option 1' was favoured.
Following a lively debate on the Blue Badge Scheme consultation document, it was agreed certain comments would be put forward, including making the notice 'Front-Display this side uo' e bigger and more obvious. It was also thought that enforcement of disabled parking bays should be improved, and that traffic wardens should be more sympathetic to drivers with a disabibility. Ray Beare would forward these comments by 19th June.
The proposal for a debate on 'The Extremities of Disability' was enthusiastically received. It was sugested this could be a chance to clarify what can often be a 'grey area'. With clarification of the boundaries, it might become clearer how to go beyond them. Speakers will be looked into for this proposed event.
The next discussion was the finance of the forum. The percieved benefits of becoming a charity were explained to members, and Ray briefly described how this might be achieved. I, as chairman, feel that if we were in control of our own funds, we might be able to achieve much more, funding more events and influencing developments with grant assistance as we have done in the past. Ray had examples of Access Groups in the geographical area which are bening run as charities, and it was agreed that he would contact one of these to discuss their experience, to inform any decision the Forum might make.
The last business of the meeting was to inform members of the Disability Network Conference, which five members of the Forum are attending, on the 2nd of July. This is an opportunity to meet likeminded people, publicise the DES and the forums involvement in it. A report will be made to the forum at the next meeting.
_________________________________________________
If anything in this post interests you, or you have a query for myself or the forum, please leave a comment, and I will get back to you.
Greg Sadler
Tuesday, 19 June 2007
Current and Ongoing Projects
Life on the Forum is never dull. Never a meeting goes by without something new being brought to the table. We do, however, have certain projects which will last throughout most of the year. In 2007, we are dealing with two primary issues, the Councils Disability Equality Scheme, and our own Town Centre Survey. The Disability Equality Scheme, or DES, involves looking at the Councils policies and procedures and deciding which are the most relevant to people with disabilities, and assessing their impact for those people. This information will then be used to advise the councils Disability Equality Scheme.
The survey is carried out annually, and is designed to give as accurate a picture as possible of the accessibility of local shops and businesses. This project is now in its second year, and so this is the first opportunity we've had to compare results, so it could be really interesting. In my personal view, this is probably the most important part of the forums work. Hopefully we can start to see where things are going right, and where they're not doing so well, which might allow us to target our work or advice to particular areas.
Other than these two current main objectives, as you will see, we deal with a number of local and national organisations, looking to improve the lives of disabled people in Eden through improvements to all areas of life, including transport, housing, and leisure to name a few.
The survey is carried out annually, and is designed to give as accurate a picture as possible of the accessibility of local shops and businesses. This project is now in its second year, and so this is the first opportunity we've had to compare results, so it could be really interesting. In my personal view, this is probably the most important part of the forums work. Hopefully we can start to see where things are going right, and where they're not doing so well, which might allow us to target our work or advice to particular areas.
Other than these two current main objectives, as you will see, we deal with a number of local and national organisations, looking to improve the lives of disabled people in Eden through improvements to all areas of life, including transport, housing, and leisure to name a few.
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