Northern Ireland Trailblazers Inclusion Now campaign.

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www.trailblazersmuscular-dystrophy.org
Leisure
Like many young people, young disabled people like to go out with
their friends and families. Going out to the shops, to a concert or perhaps
enjoying a meal out do not seem like extraordinary events. Much of the
time, however, young disabled people find they need to plan ahead
meticulously to ensure access is available.
Investing in accessibility makes business sense and not considering access precludes disabled
people and many of their friends and family from spending their hard-earned cash in particular
establishments. If disabled people can have accurate information related to access, this is crucial
in improving their experiences and would help to avoid disappointment.
My local pub has steps but my mates lift
me into it. The pub does however have
a disabled toilet. The big screen is great
and I enjoy going out.
Alistair Carlisle
I know some sports stadiums where
all disabled fans are sat together,
regardless of who they support!
It is a bit awkward!
Conor O’Kane
Michaela Hollywood shares her experiences about what she likes to do in her spare time:
Visiting restaurants
Restaurants are great, provided they have the physical access. Most staff members
could do with more training on how to address me, and not another member of my
party when taking my order. However, I have come across some excellent members
of staff who have addressed me and offered plentiful physical assistance in a tactful
and subtle manner.
Going shopping
Clothes shopping is often a challenge due to lack of space; the disabled changing
rooms are either used as storage rooms or are completely inaccessible. I would love to
see changing rooms include hoists and benches so that I could try on trousers as well
as tops, as currently I have to buy them to try them and return them if they don’t fit.
“I have never been to a public place in all of Northern Ireland which has a toilet with a
hoist and bench. However, I recently found out that Stormont [Parliament Buildings]
has a Changing Places toilet. Building standards should include these.
“All too often the image of disability is someone who can either be lifted or can
self-transfer to a toilet. This is not the case. It is painful, dehumanising and undignified
to be unable to use the toilet when going out. This has got to change! It is, without a
doubt, the most urgent aspect of being disabled in Northern Ireland, which has got
to be fixed not only for dignity but for health and sanitation.