Access in communities
However, it is not just those in rural areas that may experience challenges with accessing opportunities within Gloucestershire. Issues with access to, and cost of, transport can also be an issue within urban areas. Even when spaces are available to connect, they may not be accessible to everyone, either due to physical barriers, or in terms of having easy to read signs, adequate lighting, open toilets or staff and/or volunteers who are confident in supporting individuals with additional communication needs. All these factors can cause barriers to accessing social and leisure opportunities, as well as services specifically designed to encourage community connections.
Inclusion Gloucestershire wanted to understand the areas of everyday life that are causing concern or worry for people in Gloucestershire who face disabling barriers. In June and July 2021, they invited people who face disabling barriers to give their opinions and experiences along with any ideas they have for improving things.
A number of key barriers to accessing leisure and social activities and to maintaining contact with family and friends were shared by people and these were:
- Distance to travel getting to activities and lack of activities in certain parts of the county.
- Transport and travel barriers
- Barriers to access buildings
- Lack of available support, and costs of support, to effectively participate in activities
- Affordability and timings of activities and transport
- The need to book in advance, and computer skills needed to book activities online
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