Join the conversation on access
Yes, it is April Fools' Day, but we are stressing that this is no joke.
Everyday our members are tackled by broken lifts, inaccessible buildings and social spaces, blocked or poorly built pathways with no dished curbs, lack of disabled parking bays, and limited or no public transport options with red tape that simply does not make sense. We could go on...
Many of these issues can be resolved, they are everyday issues which may seem small but if resolved they will make a BIG impact to peoples lives.
What do we want?
Irish Wheelchair Association is calling for a full-time, fully resourced access officer, a person with the lived experience of disability, in each county council.
We are also calling for increased meaningful consultation with people with disabilities and representative organisations like IWA and Disability Access Groups working in the community.
What can you do?
Let's start the conversation, together.
Our members Conor, Connie and John have teamed up with comedians Anna Clifford, David Mc Savage and Owen Colgan to help create a conversation about access.
Please watch, like and share on your social media channels or search #AccessNoJoke
Anna & John
John Fulham (Donabate, Dublin) joins Anna Clifford to call out ridiculous accessibility oversights.
As Public Engagement Manager for IWA and a wheelchair user himself, John knows small changes could make a big difference. "Many of these issues are easy to fix. People just need to be aware of them—and care enough to act."
David & Connie
Connie Richardson pairs up with comedian David McSavage to highlight access issues people with disabilities face in society. In this case particularly transport.
Connie moved to Dublin over 15 years ago to increase her independence and refuses to let these barriers to get her down. "By the time I get to the bus stop, I've already overcome so many obstacles. If the one wheelchair spot is taken, or the ramp is broken, I may miss my appointments, but I try to remain positive or leave the house really early to allow for these situations.”
Owen & Conor
Conor McAuley partners with Hardy Bucks star Owen Colgan. Conor, 23, has had to quit a job due to an inaccessible building and finds public transport a constant challenge.
"I live just 40 minutes from Dublin but getting there can feel impossible. I stick to big stations like Drogheda and Connolly because at least I know there'll be staff to help. I have often been left on the train if the ramp is not there to meet me."
If you are a business or a local council you and would like to know more you can check out our Best Practice Access Guidelines today.
Download Best Practice Access Guidelines