21 Days Out
Wheelchairs on the Beach The benefits are huge, not just for the individual but for the whole family.
Special beach wheelchairs have been introduced to North Berwick in East Lothian to allow disabled people better access. The Beach Wheelchair Project lends adult and child specialist wheelchairs and a beach walker free of charge, and the specially designed wheels means the chairs can cope with wet or dry sand. The Project was set up last year by Alison Brown and Jackie Tagg. Alison’s son and Jackie’s brother and mum could not access the local beach due to disabilities. Alison said: “The simple pleasure of being able to get onto the sand and down to the water’s edge is something that most of us take for granted but when you are a wheelchair user is almost impossible. The project allows people to get right onto the beach using our specially designed balloon tyred wheelchairs. “Despite the poor summer we experienced last year the beach wheelchairs have now been hired out on over 50 occasions. We are really delighted that we have been able to help so many individuals access the beautiful beaches here in North Berwick. The benefits are huge, not just for the individual but for the whole family. The project enables people to join their loved
ABOVE: Crime writer Ian Rankin officially opened the project
ones on the beach instead of just looking on from afar. For many, a new and unique experience helping to make precious and lasting memories.” The beach wheelchairs need someone to push them and users must be able to transfer to the chair themselves or be lifted by the carer. The user must be able to get in to the chair from a standing or sideways transfer. Currently the project does not have a hoist to assist with transfers between wheelchairs, however this is something that they hope to provide in the future. The project is run by volunteers who are happy to provide more information about the wheelchairs and discuss your needs when you phone. They will also arrange a hire period that suits you and arrange to meet you at the Beach Hut. The beach wheelchairs are available every day during daylight hours, advance booking is essential. You can find out the latest news from the project by following ‘Beach Wheelchairs’ on Facebook or by visiting www.beachwheelchairs.org or by calling 07494 600 954.
