Improving accessibility boost at shops in Kirkley, Lowestoft

The new scheme called 'Improving Accessibility by Raising Awareness' has seen improvements made at shops and businesses in Kirkley for people with disabilities.

The Enabling Kirkley logo. (Image: Enabling Kirkley)

It has been launched by Enabling Kirkley - part of Kirkley People’s Forum, which is supported by Community Action Suffolk, who have encouraged businesses to make improvements to the way people can use their services by breaking down the barriers people with disabilities may experience.

With volunteers from Enabling Kirkley visiting shops and businesses to discuss some of the issues which disabled people may face, they have been raising awareness that many disabilities are hidden and that reasonable adjustments can be made.

Enabling Kirkley has produced an information booklet to assist business owners in decisions about changes they can make - and this has seen changes, such as better signage and installation of 'Ring for Assistance' doorbells introduced.

Businesses that take part get a certificate of participation, a window sticker to show that they are committed to improving accessibility, and a statement that provides information to their customers as they commit to making a positive change.

Last week saw the first 13 businesses being awarded their certificates by David Lawrence, who leads the Enabling Kirkley group and is chair of Kirkley People’s Forum.

Mr Lawrence said: "It’s so positive to have things actually change because of our group."

Carol Young from Bath Bomb Beauties receiving her certificate (Image: Enabling Kirkley)

Carol Young, from Bath Bomb Beauties, said: "Access is the most important thing.

"We want everyone to be able to enjoy what we offer."

Dawn Tomlin, from The Kirkley Village Tea Rooms, added: "Being part of the Enabling Kirkley scheme helps us show that we’ll do everything we can to make sure that everyone knows they are welcome."

With the scheme to be rolled out across many more Kirkley businesses over the coming months email info@kirkleypeoplesforum.org.uk or send the group a message on the Enabling Kirkley Facebook page.