Dear all,

I am looking to put together a response to Living Streets' consultation on shared space. One of the issues raised was that of interaction between cyclists and disabled path users. Although it was probably not intentional, the impression given by the authors of the consultation was that they viewed cyclists and disabled path users as mutually exclusive groups, and that interaction between them was a problem.

Of course we know that some frail or disabled people do feel apprehensive about sharing space with cyclists. Equally however we know of a great many disabled people from whom cycling provides mobility that they could not otherwise enjoy. Whether it is providing basic mobility or improved quality of life, cycling can provide great benefits to many people with disabilities.

I would like to put together a photo gallery of people who cycle with a disability, and to use it in my submission.

If you suffer a disability and cycle, or if you have a friend / relative / colleague who does, and would be willing to have your photo on that gallery, please contact me at a.massie@... with a picture and a few lines explaining how cycling helps you deal with that disability or how it improves your life.

It doesn't have to be an obvious or dramatic disability. Maybe you are just getting a bit arthritic and walking any distance is becoming painful. Other examples might be people who are unable to drive due to age or a medical condition, people who cannot walk easily, blind riders who enjoy getting out on a tandem with a sighted partner, people who use a hand cranked bike due to a lost or paralysed limb, people who use a tricycle because of balance problems etc - you will know far more about it than me.

Please pass this on to anybody who you think might be interested in contributing.

Lastly, I know that I am stepping into a terminological mine field so if I have used any terms or phrases that cause you offence, please forgive me and feel free to correct me.

Regards
 
 
 
Alasdair Massie

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