District launches photo campaign on accessibility

Everyone wants to be fit for life and into old age. But who can rule out being dependent on easy language, easily accessible buildings or grab bars and anti-slip mats in bathrooms in later life? Certainly no one. The district wants to increase the focus on accessibility - and is therefore launching a photo campaign entitled "Arrive, get in, get along" until 30 October. The aim is to make successful accessibility measures visible.

Small things make the difference
It is not impairments or wheelchairs that hinder people, often it is just the barriers in everyday life - i.e. when shopping, in means of transport, in restaurants, at leisure facilities or in public buildings. The photo campaign is intended to raise awareness of the challenges and needs of people - and to award prizes for good measures that lead to greater accessibility. "It doesn't necessarily depend on large, expensive and complex (conversion) measures," says Miriam Drüppel, the municipal representative for people with disabilities. "It's often the little things that make a difference." For example: clear and distinct lettering on signs, high-contrast colours, stand-up aids or packaging that is easy to open.

Impairments can be manifold
Good examples that make a difference even on a small scale are to be made more visible through the photo campaign. What should also become clear: That there are very different types of impairments - and not all of them are always equally visible, for example through a physical handicap. "Some impairments are physical, some mental, others psychological. Still others involve senses or language or a learning disability," Drüppel continues. "Accessibility should ideally cover all these areas."

The district is also committed to this as one of 18 Hessian model regions for accessibility. "In the coming years, the district has set itself the goal of developing solutions to further improve accessibility and participation in Waldeck-Frankenberg. The initial focus will be on the areas of housing and tourism. Other areas will follow," explains the coordinator of the model region and deputy municipal disability officer Alexandra Köck.

All people in Waldeck-Frankenberg are therefore invited to take part in the photo campaign and submit good, individual, creative, inspiring or courageous examples by photo: The pictures can be uploaded online at www.landkreis-waldeck-frankenberg.de/barrierefreiheit until 30 October. They will then be exhibited on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Small recognition prizes will be raffled among all participants. The pictures will probably be shown as a small exhibition in the form of a digital slide show in the Korbach district hall and will also be published online. "With this campaign, we want to encourage people to share their experiences and perspectives and offer those affected a mouthpiece and a platform," Miriam Drüppel continues. "We are therefore looking forward to receiving numerous submissions."

Keywords:

Photo campaign: Arrive, get in, get along Model region for accessibility