Holmes Supports Aspire Christmas Shopping Access Campaign

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 11th Dec 2007

Paul supports the Aspire Christmas Access Campaign

A group of disabled people from Chesterfield took to the streets this week to highlight the issue of access to shops.

The Aspire campaign group gave out leaflets asking shoppers and shop-keepers to remember the needs of wheel-chair users at Christmas. They want to make sure everyone can get around shops freely to enjoy their Christmas shopping.

The group was joined by local MP, Paul Holmes.

"Shops get very busy at Christmas time of course and stores carry extra stock. If aisles are blocked, it is difficult for disabled people to get around to do their Christmas shopping," says local campaigns co-ordinator, Ed Maxfield.

"It's not just a problem for wheel-chair users of course. Some older people, mums with pushchairs and people with visual impairments can face the same issues."

Paul Holmes MP added 'I fully support the Aspire Campaign as they seek to demonstrate how tasks people normally take for granted are difficult for people with disabilities. The festive season should be enjoyable, but whilst able-bodied people rush around some disabled people cannot even get into certain shops. We should be working all year round to ensure that everyone in our community can enjoy the shops and facilities in Chesterfield, and I hope we can set an example for the Country in making sure we are considerate and accessible to everyone.'