Tunbridge Wells volunteer group continues work to improve accessibility across the borough

A volunteer organisation dedicated to making Tunbridge Wells more accessible is continuing its work to improve everyday life for people with disabilities across the borough.

The Tunbridge Wells & Area Access Group brings together volunteers with lived experience of disability to identify barriers and work with local organisations, businesses and councils to create more inclusive public spaces and services.

Over the past year, the group has been involved in a range of projects aimed at improving accessibility for residents and visitors.

Recent work includes:

• Accessibility assessments for hospitality businesses in partnership with Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, helping venues identify improvements and recognise those meeting accessibility standards.
• Campaigning for better neuro rehabilitation services through the 'Louder Together' campaign, working alongside local charities to raise awareness and press for improved provision.
• Improving transport accessibility, including successful campaigning that contributed to accessibility upgrades at High Brooms railway station. The group's transport officer also works with transport providers to improve journeys for passengers with additional needs.
• Supporting the Royal Victoria Place redevelopment, ensuring plans for the shopping centre take into account the needs of disabled people from the early design stages.
• Highlighting local accessibility issues, regularly raising concerns with councillors about dropped kerbs, disabled facilities and hazards in public spaces.
• Promoting inclusive fitness facilities, supporting improvements that make public exercise and leisure spaces more accessible for disabled residents.

Among those attending were sisters Charlotte Gilham and Alice Bright, who recreated a photograph taken beside their childhood handprints. Another local resident, Bradley Atkinson, revisited his own plaque and reflected on recognising many of the names from growing up in Maidstone, showing how the park has remained part of local life for an entire generation.

Community groups also joined the celebrations, including members of the San Fairy Ann Cycling Club, which has supported the park by sponsoring a commemorative plaque.

The group says its work covers a wide range of accessibility needs, including mobility, sensory and cognitive disabilities, with the aim of making participation in community life easier for everyone.

The Tunbridge Wells & Area Access Group is open to new volunteers who would like to support its work. Anyone interested in getting involved can apply to join through the group's Facebook page.

More information about the group is available on the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council website: Tunbridge Wells & Area Access Group