Lockdowns as a result of coronavirus are starting to be eased across the world. With this easing, we are seeing temporary changes being made to street layouts, largely to encourage cycling so that people don’t have to use public transport.
We want to ensure that any temporary changes to our streets that may appear across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales allow blind and partially sighted people and those with other disabilities to still safely get around and to cross the roads using pedestrian crossing facilities. Please write to your local councillor to ask that they make sure any changes that happen locally don’t affect people's ability to get out and about.
As councils make changes to local infrastructure to encourage walking and cycling, it is as important as ever that accessibility is maintained for blind and partially sighted people, that's why we have shared our advice with councils to help them make sure any changes to our streets are accessible.
As rental e-scooter trials get underway, it is essential that these schemes do not undermine the confidence and independence of blind and partially sighted pedestrians.
Our research shows how social distancing is near-impossible for many blind and partially sighted people.
We've developed a whole host of resources to help you tackle inaccessible streets in your area.
Who put that there! report
Street charter toolkit
If you need any support with local Street Charter meetings or want to organise a blindfold walk, just contact your Regional Campaigns Officer.
We have audio CD and braille versions of the 'Who Put That There?' report and the Street Charter, so just get in touch if you would like either of these formats.
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