13 December 2006
Eastbourne’s disabled community feel they have been listened to and have influenced the Council’s thinking in regard to disability equality. This is the overall response from disabled people who were given the opportunity to assist in the development of Eastbourne Borough Council’s Disability Equality Scheme. The Scheme sets out the commitments and actions to be taken to improve the lives of disabled people living and working in Eastbourne.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s Disability Champion, Councillor Patrick Bowker says, “Understanding the issues faced by disabled people in getting around the town and accessing services enables the Council to shape its services in the future, and as community leaders helps us to influence others. It would be impossible for us to have a scheme to improve opportunities for disabled people in our community, without involving disabled people. Their enthusiasm to assist us was overwhelming and I would like to thank all those who were involved and who continue to be involved.”
Work began on the Council’s scheme earlier this year with the involvement of disabled people being a key area. An engagement event was held at the Town Hall in October, with several disabled people and organisations representing their views invited to come along. Participation in the event was so successful that a second room was required to accommodate everyone. Particular issues raised by disabled people include getting around the town and parking, access to services, information and buildings and general attitudes and awareness issues. The event also included, for the first time, all the statutory organisations of the Eastbourne Strategic Partnership who came together to promote a joint approach to disability equality across the town.
The Council has also appointed Councillor Bowker to the new position of Disability Champion, who will provide a direct link between disabled people, their representative organisations and leading Members.
The Council’s Disability Equality Scheme is available by following the link at the side of the page and the action plan is open to consultation until 30 January 2007. Please feedback any comments you may have on the Scheme either via the website or to Monica Elsen, Communication and Participation Manager, Town Hall, Grove Road.
