Your Say: A High Street for Everyone!

Our Raid Campaign Group have recently done some research on ‘Making Teddington more accessible for Disabled shoppers.’ This is what they’d like to tell you:

“For wheelchair users and people with limited mobility, something as simple as a step at the entrance can turn an enjoyable shopping trip into a frustrating experience. A narrow doorway, tables and chairs blocking the way, or insufficient room to manoeuvre can make entering a shop or stopping for a coffee difficult, if not impossible. But the good news is that some businesses are already making an effort.

One establishment that particularly impressed us was Starbucks. Its automatic doors, accessible toilet and generous space inside make it much easier for wheelchair users to enter, move around and enjoy a visit. It’s a good example of how thoughtful design can help make a business more welcoming.

We recognise that not every building has the same amount of space and older premises can present particular challenges. Some businesses have already installed small ramps to help customers overcome steps, and simply rearranging a few tables and chairs could create a clearer route through a doorway or provide more room for a wheelchair to manoeuvre. It is not necessarily about removing furniture or making expensive alterations.

We would also encourage businesses planning renovations or other building work to consider step-free access wherever possible. Thinking about accessibility at the planning stage could make a real difference for years to come.

Alongside wheelchair users, there are older residents, people using walking frames, parents with pushchairs and others who may struggle with steps or narrow entrances. Making premises easier to enter and move around can help welcome a wider range of customers.

When a person cannot get through the door, they may have no choice but to take their business elsewhere. That is a missed opportunity for the trader and a disappointing experience for the customer.

We’re not setting out to criticise individual businesses or demand that every building undergo expensive alterations overnight. Our aim is to raise awareness, recognise those who are already making a positive effort and encourage others to consider what might be possible.

A small change could make a big difference.”

By Raid Campaign Group