How it all started
I am a full-time wheelchair user with Arthrogryposis. I am fed up finding it extremely difficult to be independent, while out shopping. In one shop, I was unable to pay due to cardboard promotional stands in front of all of the tills. I decided to write to the company in question to explain what my issues were and what improvements could be made, in my opinion, that would make all the difference, not just to me but for many others also. I received a reply with an apology and told someone would look into the matter. Quite a time went by, so I wrote back to them for an update. After many tweets back and forth, one of the managers contacted me and asked if I would meet with him so he could understand my issues further and help to make improvements. Of course, I agreed. When I met him at the store in question, I found that many changes had already been implemented. I was impressed! Anyway, we talked about the difficulties I have while trying to shop on my own. He told me he found the information extremely helpful and insightful. I now run a website dedicated to informing other disabled people of all the shops I have contacted with any accessibility issues.
What I did to try to overcome it
I contacted the head office of the store.
How it made me feel
Determined, anxious and hopeful
The outcome
The store made the changed I had suggested
Final thoughts
My website informs other of accessibility issues I have found but it also includes facts and info regarding disability access, the Equality Act 2010 and what responsibilities shops etc have.
If you've been discriminated against, read how you can positively assert your rights in our Take Action section
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