DUNDEE ACCESS GROUP

Convenor’s Report 2015-16

I think it would be fair to say that we have had a productive year.

We have approved an amended constitution affirming our support of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention makes clear “that persons with disabilities are entitled to live independently in their communities, to make their own choices and to play an active role in society.” Our primary focus is on access in the built environment of the City of Dundee and surrounding communities.

In the autumn of 2015 a list of objectives for the year to 31^st March 2016 was produced. I am delighted to say that we fulfilled most of them, even compiling (well, sort of) an up to date membership list. We have regularised our accounts; we have produced and distributed new leaflets and posters; developed the website; liaised regularly with Dundee City Council on the important developments of the V & A and the new Regional Performance Centre for Sport.

I have been a member of the Dundee Fairness Commission which amongst other things has reported strongly on the issues of Stigma and the obscene rate of unemployment of people with disabilities.

We have been unable to do much about parking issues, nor have we got our meetings included in ‘What’s On’ in the Courier.

There can be little doubt that the highlight of the year was the Ramps Event at the Pacamara Coffee House on the Perth Road. The ramp was formally opened by Hannah Craig and Anne Farrow and was well covered by the media. There has been considerable subsequent interest in the project.

We are very grateful for the warm hospitality we receive at Thomas Herd House. Everyone who has attended has played their part, given of their wisdom and experience, and been friendly and caring. Whilst we have all played our part, it would not be right if we failed to acknowledge the work of our secretary Anne Farrow who underpins, records and sustains everything we have done.

Erik Cramb,

Dundee, June 2016