Today might be World Aids Day, but this Thursday will be International Day of Disabled People.
As part of the celebrations, lovable Actor Geoffrey Hughes (who is also the deputy Lord Lieutenant of the Island) will be one of the many special guests at a presentation taking place at noon at the Riverside Centre in Newport.
We understand that during the morning there will be several presentations including one on Dyslexia, as well as representatives from The Riverside Centre, WightMind, Dial and other agencies with stands promoting accessibility.
Riverside project Manager Linda Dowden said “We have worked with partner agencies, especially the Police, to promote accessibility from a range of perspectives, as well as highlight the support that is available to vulnerable people.”
Riverside employee Dean French added “The International Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the types of service that is available on the Island, and we would like to thank all that are involved in the day”.
Thursday morning at the Riverside will also see the launch of a new mobile wheelchair service, aimed at holiday makers staying in Island hotels.
In addition, Biffa will be presenting a donation of £2,000, making the the development of accessible toilets at the Riverside a reality.
Linda concluded “The day is about enabling all people to access personalised services in a safe and supportive way, recognising the needs that people have at different times, and that statutory agencies, such as the Police, work with voluntary sector agencies, such as Riverside, on a daily basis for the benefit of all.”
Image: Strutt and Buckley
