Disabled access still isn’t good enough, and for disabled people, poor accessibility can turn an ordinary journey into a stressful and exhausting experience.
This morning, Euan’s Guide Community Manager Joe spoke to Stephen Jardine at BBC Radio Scotland about accessible travel and his own experiences navigating Scotland as a disabled person.
Joe shared his story of travelling across the Tay Road Bridge, highlighting some of the barriers disabled people can face when using transport and public spaces.
What should be a straightforward journey can involve additional planning, uncertainty and figuring out whether facilities will actually be as described – or promised - when you get there.
Accessibility needs to work in practice, not just on paper
Having an accessible facility is one thing. Being able to use it easily, independently and as intended is another.
Joe’s experience demonstrates why accessibility needs to be considered from the perspective of the people who actually use the facilities. A ramp, lift, accessible toilet, or designated route might technically exist but if it is difficult to find, unavailable, poorly maintained or doesn't work as expected, it can create a significant barrier.
At Euan’s Guide, we hear about these experiences every day through our community of disabled people, their families and carers and our Access Survey has repeatedly shown how poor accessibility can affect people's confidence and their plans. When disabled people don't know whether somewhere will be accessible, they can be left feeling that the safest option is simply not to go.
That's why honest, detailed access information matters
Knowing what to expect before setting off can help disabled people make informed choices, reduce uncertainty and feel more confident about visiting somewhere new, which is why your disabled access reviews are so important – having first-hand experiences of someone who “gets it” can give someone the confidence to try somewhere new.
Disabled people shouldn't have to fight for access
Joe's conversation with Stephen and other guests on BBC Radio Scotland this morning is an important reminder that accessibility isn't a nice-to-have or an optional extra.
Disabled people should be able to travel, visit places, meet friends, go to work and enjoy their communities without having to spend hours figuring out whether they will be able to get through the door, use the loo, or get off a train at the right stop.
Joe explained that by providing feedback to venues and organisations, we can make a difference.
By reaching out directly to a place to share your experience and make suggestions, or by leaving a review on EuansGuide.com where we feedback to the venue on your behalf, many places will do their best to improve things.
Joe told Stephen today: “We can make change happen.”
We’re really proud to be able to back that up with our recent Impact report, which shows that 75% of venues have made accessibility improvements as a direct result of Euan’s Guide.
Together, we are making a difference. Thanks to Stephen and the BBC Radio Scotland team for having us on and highlighting disabled access. You can listen to the show online.
