Cycling, health and well-being in Orkney
Thursday, September 20th, 2018
Today I went to a really inspiring disability access event in Kirkwall, Orkney, run by Transport Scotland and The Access Travel Hub. The event brought different transport providers together to share and talk about the they are doing to make transport in Scotland a more inclusive, care-free process for everyone. Board members from North link, Kirkwall airport, Dial-a-bus and private care hire gave presentations on the amazing work they are done to make sure that all their customers receive the same ease of access no matter where they are travelling. They outlined the challenges that Orkney has faced in the past on how they have implemented changes to provide better services. They also highlighted the changes such as availability of adapted cars for wheelchairs and cost of fares. However, they all seemed so positive and inspired for change. Each person was enthused to make a difference to peoples lives and could really appreciate the difficulties disabled people face whilst travelling and trying to live an independent life.
The best part of the event was seeing my friend Ian have the chance to share his passion and inspiration for disabled cycling access. He shared his knowledge and experiences. Highlighting the challenges people face and his proposed solutions of increasing access to cycling here in Orkney.
According to a recent disability travel survey, ‘69% of disabled cycling easier than walking, with many using cycling as a mobility aid. Often this is because cycling is non-weight bearing, reducing pressure on joints, aids in balance and relieves breathing difficulties.’
Having a disability can be challenging in many ways, it can take away someone’s independence and be very isolating. Transport and getting around day to day is integral to improving this. The physical and mental benefits of cycling can have an enormous impact on someone’s self-esteem and confidence. If the right infrastructure and accessibly is in place, I believe cycling can be a power tool in relieving some of the challenges people face day to day.
The full event allowed me to realise how much I take for granted day to day being fully mobile. Not having to worry about planning journeys, where I am going to in advance and if places can accommodate me. I have the total freedom to just show up to places with a worry. Making travelling and organizing my life much easier than I once thought.
My closest experience of feeling physically impaired was during my walk leader training. It was amazingly insightful and humbling experience. The morning of the training we all went out on a 3-mile. After lunch, without knowing in advance, we all had complete the walk with a range of additional impairments- some people completed the walk in a wheel chair, some with loss of hearing, some with a pram.
I walked completely blind, guided by one of my friends. It was a totally different experience than the morning. I felt so vulnerable, nervous and cautious.Every step was a challenge. You become totally aware of your surroundings; each stone under foot, every cross-light and your sense of hearing feels super-sonic.
This experience gave me small insight into the adjustments and things people need to take into consideration just to do small tasks every day when they are visually impaired. Especially someone who has lost their sight later and life and is still adjusting to the change.
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