I WAS heartened to read Accessible Gloucestershire’s review of the Museum in the Park, which was awarded 5/5 for its physical and sensory accessibility.

The reviewer noted a number of disability-friendly features including the lowered counter, ramp access, large lift, and disabled toilet.

The museum’s walled garden has a sloped path that snakes through the garden (which is by far the best route through), and the reviewer noted: “It is clear that accessibility was a main consideration when designing the garden and it really is a great, inclusive experience for everyone.”

You can read other reviews on their website

accessglos.co.uk

Another council facility that strives to be accessible is the Pulse in Dursley.

Facilities include a hoist into the swimming pool, a Tuesday morning swim session for service users and a Changing Places Toilet which is the only one in Dursley, and one of only ten in the county.

Allsorts, SDC’s charity of the year, has recently opened a Changing Places Toilet, for visitors to Stroud.

If you’re disabled and need to make changes to your home, for example a stair lift or downstairs bathroom you may qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant.

The grant is means tested and your first port of call should be making an appointment with an occupational therapist. Their assessment will be free and can be arranged through GCC. See gloucestershire.gov.uk

You can get a reduction on your council tax if you or someone in your home is substantially and permanently disabled. See stroud.gov.uk or call 01453 754865.

Finally, if you need help getting your waste and recycling bins outside then we can arrange for them to be collected from your home. Search ‘help putting bins out’ on our website or call 01453 766321.