Working in partnership for the people of Herefordshire
Views sought from disabled people
A detailed survey is set to reveal what life is like for disabled people in Herefordshire.
The results of the survey, to be carried out by Herefordshire Council, will be used to improve services.
However, the survey is not just for those with blue badges.
“The term ‘disability’ means more than using a wheelchair,” said Cllr Roger Phillips, Leader of Herefordshire Council.
“The new legal definition of disability extends to long-term illness, chronic or progressive, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and mental illness.
“A lot of people with these kinds of health issues are not registered disabled, and do not consider themselves disabled, but their views count and we want to hear from them,” added Cllr Phillips.
The questionnaire asks detailed questions about many different aspects of living in Herefordshire, such as access to health services and leisure facilities and getting around.
It will be available throughout May and copies can be obtained from libraries and Info shops across the county.
Harriet Yellin, from the Council’s Diversity Team, said: “You can complete the online questionnaire here.
“It will be only the second consultation available in this way using special software which allows people to respond on line.
“We would like as many people as possible to tell us about the barriers they face in their everyday lives, so that we can try to make things better and tackle discrimination.
“As well as the public survey, we’re also carrying out research among our own employees in order to make improvements to the workplace and improve the opportunities open to disabled employees,” she added.
Along with the questionnaires, there will also be a public meeting on Tuesday, May 23, at the Three Counties Hotel for anyone interested in debating further issues.
Anyone interested in booking a place should contact Harriet on (01432) 260216 or e-mail her at diversity@herefordshire.gov.uk.
The results of these surveys, along with feedback from the public meeting, will help the Council improve the effectiveness of services and accessibility of information.
It will also help the council to draw up a Disability Equality Scheme which proactively supports disabled people in Herefordshire. The new Scheme will be published in October.
The questionnaire will be available on-line from May 1 to 31, and paper copies will be available at libraries and Info shops.