A disability group in Suffolk says better accessibility could boost economy
It comes with just four weeks to go until Felixstowe’s Disability Pride festival- the first in the county.
A disability rights campaigner in Suffolk says more inclusive events and businesses would benefit people and the economy.
"“It makes you feel less of a person”
Ian Bell is one of the organisers behind the county’s first-ever Disability Pride, taking place in Felixstowe on July 11th. He told us many places still “play lip service” to accessibility, and that can have a huge impact on people’s lives.
“There was one event we went to… a fireworks display in October,” he said. “There was blue badge car parking, which was great, and then the main event was halfway across the other side of the field… so there’s a lot of other disabled people who won’t go in there.”
He told us that when places don’t make the effort, it affects more than just access, it affects how people feel.
“It makes you feel not wanted,” Ian said. “It makes you feel less of a person.”
He added: “Open the doors, make it accessible to all of us.”
Ian says cost is often used as an excuse but it shouldn't be. “It also comes down to, ‘I can’t do it because the building’s listed. I can’t do it because it’s an old building.’ But last year we went to Chester and their city wall… 90% of it is accessible. If they can do it, why can’t everybody?”
The purple pound
The team behind Disability Pride is keen to remind businesses of the economic value of inclusion too. The Purple Pound, Ian tells us, is the collective spending power of disabled people and their families and that it's worth billions to the UK economy.
“There is a huge strength and expertise in our community,” Ian said. “And when you include us (the disabled community) properly, it doesn’t just make things fairer—it makes financial sense too.”
Disability Pride
Disability Pride Felixstowe promises to be as inclusive as possible. “We’re asking for as many disabled people, carers, family, friends as possible to join us on July the 11th,” Ian said.
The day will feature a colourful procession from Martello Park to the town’s leisure centre, with samba bands, stilt walkers, a Guinness World Record storyteller and other surprises.
“We’ve got a roadshow in the leisure centre with businesses that have got some sort of association with disability—showing the way… and just talking to disabled people.”
Organisers are still looking for sponsors, volunteers and even spare wheelchairs to help more people get involved.
“We are trying to make it as inclusive as possible,” Ian said. “So if it’s possible, anybody who’s got wheelchairs that we can borrow for the day… we’re looking for volunteers to help… we’re still looking for sponsorship.”
The event is supporting two local charities—Suffolk MindandActivLives.
He added: “Join us really for a brilliant day of inclusivity… fun and laughter… celebrating themselves, not limitations.”