Passengers with reduced mobility are sometimes being left humiliated, deprived of their dignity and in some cases even physically hurt when travelling through airports, putting them off flying altogether, a new Which? investigation has found. Continue reading “Dehumanising” – Airports failing to meet the needs of disabled travellers
Tag: disability
Person-centred reform to disability payments “will reduce anxiety and stress”
A sea change in social security policy to reduce the anxiety and stress associated with the current UK Government disability payments process has been given strong public support.
A consultation found that Scottish Government proposals for a person-centred approach was favoured over the current ‘one-size-fits-all’ system of the UK Government.
The new Scottish social security system has fairness, dignity and respect designed in from the start. Measures will include:
- face-to-face pre-application support delivered across the country
- a multi-channel approach for submitting applications, including telephone, paper-based and face-to-face
- clear eligibility criteria
- simplified application form
- enhanced role for carers in provision of evidence
- greater choice and control over the timing and locations of assessment, with home-based assessments provided where required
- profit making companies will not be involved in carrying out assessments for disability payments
This contrasts with the UK Government system which users have criticised for having complicated and inaccessible application routes, unnecessary face-to-face assessments and inaccurate reports.
Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “I have heard from far too many ill and disabled people who currently know only of stigma, stress and anxiety when it comes to accessing welfare support and fear the ‘dreaded brown envelope’ from the Department for Work and Pensions.
“That is why I want a sea change in accessing disability payments. A new system designed from the ground up – together with users themselves – that puts people first.
“We are supporting people to access the financial support they are entitled to and actively seeking to move away from the stigma of benefits to recognise they are an investment in our people.
“That means a process that is clear and accessible from start to finish and ensures people understand how and when their application will be dealt with.
“It is part of our promise to the people of Scotland that our social security system is a public service and will treat everybody with fairness, dignity and respect.”
Edinburgh Printmakers embracing tech to help disabled visitors
An Edinburgh-based art gallery and studio has adopted new technology to improve customer experiences for disabled visitors.
Edinburgh Printmakers, which is home to a gallery, printmaking studio and café, is one of the latest businesses to have subscribed to ‘Welcome’ by Neatebox. The innovative platform, which was developed by former guide dog mobility instructor Gavin Neate allows users to notify venues ahead of their arrival and request additional support if needed. Continue reading Edinburgh Printmakers embracing tech to help disabled visitors
Scotland becomes first UK nation to ban pavement parking
Campaigners have welcomed the Scottish Parliament’s decision to implement a nationwide footway parking ban. Continue reading Scotland becomes first UK nation to ban pavement parking
Support for automatic access to Blue Badge Scheme for people with MND
Lothian MSP Miles Briggs has given his support to the campaign for people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) to receive automatic access to the Blue Badge scheme. Continue reading Support for automatic access to Blue Badge Scheme for people with MND
Blind ‘King of Underestimation’ takes on Kiltwalk today
Being registered blind isn’t stopping David Clarke from walking 24 miles as part of the Edinburgh Kiltwalk today. Continue reading Blind ‘King of Underestimation’ takes on Kiltwalk today
Disability charities urge Scottish councils not to cut special needs funding
A coalition of disability charities is urging all 32 Scottish local authorities to maintain vital funding for children and young people with additional support needs (ASN).
The children and young people concerned, an estimated 199,000 in total, include those with physical, sensory or learning disabilities in mainstream education, as well as those with health conditions. Continue reading Disability charities urge Scottish councils not to cut special needs funding
Review of Blue Badge fraud as scheme is extended to those with ‘hidden disabilities’
People with hidden disabilities will soon be able to access Blue Badge parking permits, thanks to the rollout of new guidance today. Continue reading Review of Blue Badge fraud as scheme is extended to those with ‘hidden disabilities’
Blackwood scores high with Care Watchdog
EDINBURGH-based care specialist Blackwood has been praised by Scotland’s major regulatory body for helping people with disabilities live life to the fullest. Continue reading Blackwood scores high with Care Watchdog
Accessible parks for National Picnic Day
Get your baguettes and hampers ready to celebrate National Picnic Day (23 April) and the increasingly warm weather. A variety of top accessible and inclusive parks feature in Rough Guide to Accessible Britain to inspire people with diverse needs to enjoy a fun day out. Continue reading Accessible parks for National Picnic Day