Speaker: Peter Hindshaw,  Chairman of Unlimited Oxfordshire

Following formal AGM business Peter Hindshaw described his own experience during  50 years of disabled living, and the origins and development of his organisation. In spite of the huge improvement in facilities and help for disabled people today compared with 50 years ago, and the establishment of legal requirement for equality, there is still a need for an organisation to promote the inclusion of disabled people at all levels of society.  Many types of disabilty are not recognised even by those suffering, and therefore do not claim help. Although law requires equality of access, the onus is on the victim to prove discrimination by taking the offender to court, and  even if this is successful,  a remedy can only be ordered if it is judged reasonable in the circumstances.  Unlimited Oxfordshire represent over 400 people and helps them by writing to Local As, bus companies, shops etc.  During discussion, problems of pavement blocking, poor surfaces, road crossings, Frideswide Square et al were examined. In summary, the chairman re-iterated that safety and convenience for people in wheelchairs should ensure a better environment for all.

Website link: http://www.unltdox.org.uk/