Overall this was a useful networking event, however I felt there was weakness in the organisation. Although the event was mainly held in a large room, due to the number of people attending it was necessary to have an overflow room.
A BSL interpreter and a palantypist were present but it was difficult
to see the transcript from the backend of the room and not very good
for sound. Wheelchair users had to keep shifting to allow others to get
by or go out etc.
There were three seminars in different rooms, but not enough time was
given for people to decide which to attend and move around. In
particular the policing workshop was held in a room very difficult to
access.
The workshops ran out of time, so there was a lot of questions people did not have an opportunity to ask. I attended the seminar on the proposed plans for the access and housing of athletes, staff etc. for the Olympics. By the time speakers on the subject had their say, very little was able to be dealt with because time was limited.
Neal Crowley from the APRF managed to get in some valid points regarding the limitations on the use of BLUE BADGES. It was agreed by the panel that there should be a standard for use of these badges the length and breadth of the U.K.
This was for me personally the 3rd Disability Capital event I have attended, and I cannot say I noticed matters for and on disability issues have progressed any further.
There is a very long way to go on accessibility on a large range of themes being standard practice
Mrs Elsie Horner
