A new group is being formed to ensure that the voices of disabled people are heard, and their concerns acted upon, in the city of Portsmouth.
HIVE Portsmouth is supporting the formation of the Disability Advisory Group, a group established and run by disabled people, which will work both proactively to identify issues of concern to those with physical disabilities, and reactively as a sounding board for local organisations looking for specific advice.
It is hoped that the creation of the group will help improve access and services for physically disabled people.
Chief Executive of HIVE Portsmouth Lorna Reavley said: “We know that there are key issues which are raised time and time again by those with physical disabilities. Employment, access, transport and benefits are all common themes when it comes to the challenges that people want to see addressed in the city.
“There’s a real need for this kind of group in Portsmouth, bringing together people who are passionate about highlighting the challenges facing disabled people who have physical impairments. We want to hear from disabled people with a range of impairments including sensory impairments, people of all ages, people from all walks of life, to ensure that this group is as effective and inclusive as possible in steering positive changes.”
The work is being funded through HIVE Portsmouth as part of its commitment to support disabled people in the city to make the changes needed.
A Disability Advisory Panel of at least ten people will be set up to form the heart of the group. These members will carry out work such as transport and access assessments, decide on what areas of work the Panel needs to deliver and consult with organisations on transport or access issues.
If you would like to register your interest for the Disability Advisory Group or find out more, email disability@hiveportsmouth.org.uk or call 023 9400 7124 to see what you could do to help.
