Physical Distancing Easy Read Summary Report

“I was spat at yesterday for asking someone to clear my space.”

This is just one of many comments received by Disability Equality Scotland in their recent poll of disabled people on the topic of physical distancing.  In collaboration with the Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland (MACS) Disability Equality Scotland posed the question ‘During your daily exercise or when undertaking essential journeys, have you experienced any issues with physical distancing?”  The poll generated over 900 responses with the vast majority (99%) stating they had experienced difficulties.

Key concerns related to infrastructure, with pavements not being wide enough, nor equipped to deal with disabled peoples’ needs even without the added complication of retaining a two-metre distance.  Pavement parking further exacerbated this issue as did street clutter such as bins or street furniture; an issue Disability Equality Scotland raised recently in response to the proposed amendment in the Coronavirus Bill at stage 2.  Food shopping also remains challenging for disabled people especially as increased numbers of people return to the shops, disabled people https://bluesci.org.uk/xanax-1mg/ felt more at risk.

However, it was the responses relating to the attitude and behaviour of members of the public towards disabled people that sparked the greatest concerns.  The poll revealed the extent to which disabled people have been approached and accused of breaking lockdown or questioned why they are making essential journeys by members of the public.  The perception is clearly that all disabled people should be shielding, and at worst; are potentially ‘infecting others’ by being outside.

The poll results also indicate mistreatment by transport staff refusing travel to disabled people, many of whom are key workers trying to carry out their day-to-day lives.

Morven Brooks, Chief Executive Officer of Disability Equality Scotland said

“We are very concerned at the numbers of disabled people who have experienced this type of hate crime.  It is of great concern how this new ‘normal’ will impact the long-term mental health of many people, especially our attitudes towards one another.  Please be kind, courteous and thoughtful of others, we don’t know yet how long this new ‘normal’ will last!”

Linda Bamford, Convener of MACS added

“It is extremely worrying and concerning that disabled people are experiencing hate crime during this public health crisis.  I thought we were further on in our journey than this; but it is good to get this out and start to address some of these issues.  It is totally unacceptable.  MACS is aware of some of the infrastructures barriers and we are working with stakeholders to address this and design places and spaces that are easy for everyone to access, navigate and use.”

A briefing paper summarising the comments has been circulated to Ministers and Officials at the Scottish Government and other partner organisations and is available on the Disability Equality Scotland website: www.yoursayondisability.scot/weekly-poll-results-covid-19-physical-distancing-week-beginning-25-may/

You can also download the Easy Read version of the summary report.

To make your voice heard, become a member with Disability Equality Scotland: www.disabilityequality.scot/membership-application-form/