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Opening The Door To Access Issues

The Council intends to make sure that programs, projects and facilities across the Shire are readily available and easy to access

By Karen Gregory - 27th August 2002 - Back to News

Wellington Council is opening the door to access issues.

The Council intends to make sure that programs, projects and facilities across the Shire are readily available and easy to access.

It is developing an Access Policy and Action Plan designed to eradicate barriers people experience in gaining access to or being included in community functions and facilities.

Community Planner Julia Farrell said that while the plan was intended for everyone, it would focus in particular on the needs and concerns of people with disabilities.

"Facilities and services that most of us take for granted might not always be easy for everyone to use," said Julia.

"We will do the very best we can to overcome any obstacles people face to access and inclusion."

The Council wants to hear from anyone with access or inclusion issues and has organised a series of meetings across the Shire between 6 September – 19 November.

A full schedule of the meetings is appended below:

People with disabilities, people who have experienced mental illness and carers are especially welcome to attend. If you would like to attend this meeting but have barriers in relation to transport or other needs, please contact Lisa on 5142 3326 or 1300 366 244 as soon as possible.

Eight key issues will be worked through at the meetings and the information gained will be analysed by the Access Policy and Action Plan Working Group.

Following the meetings and analysis, a draft Access Policy and Action Plan will be drawn up and presented to Council for consideration by March 2003.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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