Councillor backs call for safe play areas for disabled children and adults. (Bradford Liberal Democrats)

Bradford Liberal Democrats <info@bradfordlibdems.org.uk>

Councillor backs call for safe play areas for disabled children and adults.

June 29, 2007 2:42 PM

Councillor Carol Beardmore is backing parents who want the council to provide safe play facilities for children and adults with learning disabilities.

Mrs Shuna Hartley who has two young people with severe disabilities, took her campaign to the Council by asking a public question at the meeting on 23rd June.

Councillor Beardmore said,

" I was appalled at the insensitive comments made by the Conservative portfolio holder about having to fence public parks and suggesting these young people can go to the Eccleshill Adventure Playground.'

"This playground was set up to offer 'adventure play' which includes den building and making climbing equipment using hammers and nails. Staff and volunteers there work hard to make activities accessible but the severe and challenging physical needs of disabled children and adults pose significant health and safety issues. This would also apply to all current public playgrounds.

"It is clear that the portfolio holder has no understanding of what it is like to care for these children and adults. The Council should have a vision which includes play areas designed and built to met the needs of the growing population of severely disabled children and young people. They should understand that this means more than providing ramps to existing play areas. They should have a strategy for inclusion in play and leisure or they risk discriminating against a group of people who can't stand up for their rights. Every child matter. Does every disabled child matter too?"