Wildlife Trust Wins Access For All Award
24 February 2010
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has been voted the winner of the Recreation Category and judged as the overall winner of the New Forest Access for All Awards.
The New Forest Access for All Awards is a scheme designed to recognise the work of organisations who have made a special effort to improve access to premises for people with disabilities.
At the Awards Ceremony held at the New Forest District Council, Bob Chapman, Reserves Officer of the Wildlife Trust received the two awards on behalf of Blashford Lakes Wildlife Reserve from the Council Chairman, Les Puttock.
Many of us take the wonderful walks of the New Forest, the coastline and the towns for granted - but for wheelchair users, these places are not so easy to visit and enjoy. The dedicated members of New Forest Access For All (NFAFA) are working tirelessly on behalf of disabled and frail members of the community.
NFAFA launched the New Forest Access For All Awards, sponsored by New Forest District Council, to applaud local organisations that make their businesses easily accessible to all.
NFDC Portfolio Holder for Employment, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Maureen Holding said: "This is a super scheme which brings people with disabilities to the attention of the business community. All nominees demonstrated a commitment to accessibility and an understanding of the problems often encountered by people with disabilities."
Olive Collins, Chairman of NFAFA, said: "The Wildlife Trust has worked really hard at Blashford Lakes to improve the facilities so that it is even more accessible for people with disabilities. It is already a popular venue with NFAFA members. The recent addition of two mobility buggies has meant that those who do not have their own mobility scooter or the means to transport one, can now fully explore and enjoy this marvellous wildlife reserve."
Bob Chapman, Reserves Officer at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust said: "The award is a great recognition for Blashford Lakes. All the main paths are rolled gravel with shallow gradients and have been upgraded to allow greater access for all. The buggies can be booked by phoning the Education Centre on 01425 472760."
Ends
Photo opportunity
Photo attached shows Bob Chapman, Reserves Officer, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust receiving the New Forest Access for All Award.
Notes to Editors
For further information please contact:
Peter Hutchings, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, 01489 774400, peterh@hwt.org.uk
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust strives to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. It is the leading wildlife charity in the counties of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, and is part of a nationwide network of 47 local charities. We work together to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in the UK. With the support of our 27, 000 members, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Trust is taking effective action to protect our natural heritage, helping it to flourish again. Find out more at http://www.hwt.org.uk/
