Guiding the way to improved disabled access across Argyll
AN EVENT aimed at improving disabled access in Oban and Argyll took place in the Corran Halls last Friday.
The Oban Times joined forces with Michael Russell MSP and Euan’s Guide – a website that publishes reviews and information about accessibility, helping to alleviate the fear of the unknown for disabled travellers.
Speaking at the event, Michael Russell said: ‘The idea behind it is simple. About 18 months ago I got to know about Euan’s Guide and was [speaking to] local businesses about the opportunity that it gives.
‘I went to Susan [Windram, editor] and asked if The Oban Times would work with us to make this event happen and ensure local businesses get the chance to learn about Euan’s Guide. This is only the beginning. We need more people knowing about it.
‘We want everyone to have the opportunity to sample the place we call home; the best place in the world.’
Donald Cameron MSP, who had been invited to speak at the event by Mr Russell, said: ‘There are many things we disagree on, but one thing we can is the importance of disabled rights and access.’
Susan Windram said: ‘The Oban Times is delighted to be part of this. It is a fantastic initiative and this is just the start.’
Marina Di Duca, VisitScotland’s inclusive tourism manager, outlined two things businesses can do to make things easier – create an access guide, so people have information and measurements for wheelchairs etc upfront, and the other is to get a Euan’s Guide review.
Two Euan’s Guide ambassadors also attended the event and were delighted with how things had gone.
Ryan MacDonald said: ‘Today has been fantastic. It really shows how passionate the area is about access and how important it is for them. The message has been about welcoming everyone to Oban and from the moment we arrived, we have had a warm welcome, which is worth its weight in gold.
‘I’d like to say a huge thank you to Michael and The Oban Times.’
Craig and Helen Findlay, who run Peninsula Trikes and care for their son Caleb, who has health problems, told The Oban Times: ‘That’s one of the things people struggle with – getting information. We go to places and there’s nothing out there for disabled people. We have to shop around on the internet to find things. We will absolutely be using the guide.’
To find out more, visit www. euansguide.com