Local MP joins disabled residents on Little Sutton walkabout to highlight accessibility barriers

Ellesmere Port and Bromborough MP Justin Madders joined members of Chronically Supported CIC on a walkabout to better understand the day-to-day challenges disabled people face navigating local streets and pavements.

The group, including people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walking sticks, met at Little Sutton Community Centre before taking a route around the neighbourhood to highlight accessibility issues.

Obstacles included missing dropped kerbs, steep surfaces, damaged pavements, overgrown bushes, pavement parking and street furniture obstructing pathways.

Members shared their experiences directly with the MP. One wheelchair user explained how uneven pavements can suddenly send her chair in another direction and potentially into the road, while another member described feeling as though their mobility scooter was sometimes “tipping over” because of steep and uneven surfaces.

Claire Roberts, co-founder of Chronically Supported CIC, uses a walking stick and lives with an energy-limiting condition. She explained how poor pavement conditions can make people less confident about getting out and about and increase the risk of falls.

Mr Madders said afterwards:

“People who use wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walking sticks, as well as those with visual impairments, explained how these issues can make even short journeys difficult, stressful and, at times, dangerous.

“Everyone deserves the dignity and freedom to get around their community safely and confidently, with the same opportunities to access shops, services and public spaces as anyone else.

“Hearing directly from residents about the barriers they face was incredibly valuable and I want to ensure those lived experiences are properly reflected in council policies and practices.

“There is also a role for all of us to play. Drivers should avoid parking on pavements and householders can ensure hedges are kept trimmed back so pathways remain accessible for everyone.”

The MP has written to Cheshire West and Chester Council seeking reassurances that accessibility and mobility issues are properly considered in street design and maintenance.

Chronically Supported CIC assists people living with long-term health conditions across Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas.

If you or someone you know could benefit, or would like to get involved, visit:

http://www.chronically-supported.org

Pictured - Justin Madders MP with members of Chronically Supported CIC, including co-founder and director Claire Roberts.