RNIB Scotland: Getting Around the City Centre
We were delighted to welcome RNIB Scotland to our November meeting to discuss the challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people when they are out and about.
Eileen Clarkson, Campaigns Officer, RNIB Scotland, explains some of the issues:
My colleague Alan Stewart and I welcomed the chance to talk about what it’s like for someone with sight loss navigating Glasgow’s streets.
Even things that appear aesthetically pleasing such as street furniture and planters can be a hazard. Equally dangerous are badly placed bins, poles or advertising boards. For most sighted people dodging obstacles is relatively easy but this is not the case for people in the blind and partially sighted community.
As the landscape of our city centre changes, blind people must mentally relearn how to navigate their way. Controlled crossings, well-placed tactile paving – the bumpy slab at the paving edge that indicate changes in the street – and clear roads all help make it easier for people to get around.
As someone with sight loss who visits the Merchant City often, Alan shared some of the tactics he employs – for example how he uses his cane to let people know he is approaching and also for detecting potential hazards.
We hope raising these issues will help people realise what makes for a safe and welcoming environment for those who are blind and partially sighted, and recognise the challenges.
Stop! Look around! Ask if this would be a safe environment for someone who is blind – and think what you can do to improve it.
Merchant City and Trongate is one of the most historic and interesting parts of our city. RNIB Scotland wants it to be accessible for everyone.
To find out more please find the link to our Street Credibility Report: RNIB Scotland calls for Street Credibility | RNIB