October 2022 New badges discussed at disabled boaters’ forum
A SELECTION of new badge designs were among a number of topics discussed at the recent disabled boaters’ forum.
The event covered several issues, including the use of the Canal & River Trust website and making the general public and other boat users aware of less able boaters.
For some time, there has been a discussion around the use of a badge that, although it won’t have the same entitlements as a blue badge, will help make people aware of possible issues encountered by boat users with a disability.
During the meeting, a number of badge designs were put forward for members to discuss with the opportunity for members to offer feedback to the designer, but there was a preference for a simple font design on a dark blue background.
Other considerations included three white lines or dots separating words, making it easier for dyslexic people to read.
There was also a discussion of the various disability symbols and the difficulty of covering a wide range of disabilities with a limited number of symbols.
As a result, there was an agreement that it would be better to have a plain logo (no disability symbol). This option means that users can add stickers or even draw their own graphics if they want. Adding the wording ‘Not all disabilities are obvious’ was also raised.
No timescale was set for the rollout of the badges, and it was felt that once the design was finalised, discussions would then take place regarding their distribution.
The forum also discussed changes to the map and other facilities on the Canal & River Trust website (www. canalrivertrust.org.uk).
Michelle Simmonds and
Paul Morgan extended an open invitation for all to contribute to and comment on the changes to the website.
Interactive maps
The proposed changes include interactive maps. These will operate with upgraded background technology for maps, resulting in the new maps being faster to load. It also seems that there will be live stoppage information. Paul Morgan told the forum: “The main network map will go first, then the team will work to add layers of specific local information.” Users will be able to zoom in, pan around, search for a location, and select to see different layers of information. Other improvements include icons that are all clickable, the inclusion of What3words for specific locations, and of particular interest to the forum was that an accessibility map offered more detailed accessibility information for Commonwealth Games sites such as the number of steps, gradient and handrails.
It is not currently available for the whole network but will be added gradually by different regions. Although this information is currently shown on two maps, developers are looking to combine these. However, the forum was told that ‘developers are mindful of not overloading the map with data’.
Forum members asked: “Is the map available in dark mode? Or compatible with adaptive screens for visually impaired people?” According to Paul Morgan, dark mode is available but added that they needed more information on the range of technology used to provide assistive tech. It was suggested that the RNIB and Thomas Pocklington Trust might be able to provide resources.
It was also pointed out that other colour modes would also help accessibility for people with dyslexia, colour impairment and more. The issue of physical access was also raised, including the maps highlighting stairs or level ground for those using crutches, wheelchairs and other equipment. This issue of accessibility was also pointed out by members of the forum who highlighted: “When buildings are upgraded, they should be making them accessible.” For example at Welford where members pointed out that ‘accessibility to the toilet has not improved’. Apparently, there are very high steps with no handrails.
CRT’s Rachel Hayward agreed to take this point to the region to see if this could be resolved while the project is still under way. Paul Morgan recommended using the web contact form for this type of issue as it creates a case with greater visibility.
Members asked who was consulted on accessibility issues for building work at the trust and what were builders/developers asked to provide ( when it comes to facilities) when new developments were planned, such as large private marinas.
They also asked if special arrangements could be made for disabled boaters and Rachel Hayward agreed to put these points on the agenda for the next forum.