Life’s a beach as wheelchair users asked for views on scheme

Summer – or even spring – might seem a long way off at the moment, but members of the public are being asked their views on plans to help wheelchair-bound residents access St Andrews’ beaches.

Following the success of the North Berwick Wheelchairs initiative, Tourism St Andrews and the Hamish Foundation have joined forces to form an action group to explore the possibility of offering a similar service in Fife.

The North Berwick scheme saw a charity set up to provide special beach wheelchairs for free loan to people with physical disabilities, with a child’s wheelchair and an adult’s wheelchair as well as an adapted walker that can be used on sand available.

That initiative also works with a hoist and volunteers can help users carry out chair-to-chair transfers.

An online questionnaire has now been launched in relation to a new scheme in St Andrews and people are being asked to air their views.

A spokesperson for Tourism St Andrews said: “We believe that the beaches in and around St Andrews should be accessible to everyone.

“Unfortunately, many elderly and disabled people are unable to gain access to the beach. With a little help, this can become a possibility.

“Beach wheelchairs can enable those with mobility issues, which prevent them from being able to access the beach, to get right down to the water or simply enjoy a stroll along the sand.”

It is hoped that responses will highlight demand and will also boost any funding bids to make it possible.

The questionnaire can be accessed via the Tourism St Andrews or Hamish Foundation websites and social media pages.