Disability and Churches Open for All
Many people have difficulties participating fully in church life as a result of barriers that could often be resolved following good advice and reflection.
The term ‘people with disabilities’ is intended to cover a wide range of difficulties that people may have and some of those difficulties are both obvious and quite easy to deal with.
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A change of print font may make it easier for some people to read our texts.
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A handy desk-lamp may provide that extra bit of illumination that someone with limited vision would appreciate.
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Full use of the t-loop system in the church will enable many people with hearing aids to enjoy the sounds of our worship.
Lots of good advice is available for churches. Through the Roof is one organisation that has lots of experience in working with churches on these issues and their website can be visited here.
Parish audits
Many parishes will benefit from undertaking an audit of their accessibility and welcome.
Contact the Social Responsibility Adviser for Dorset, Colin Brady, for advice:
colin.brady@salisbury.anglican.org.
Chaplain to Deaf People
Many deaf people regard themselves as being members of a distinct language group rather than as being disabled. The Chaplain to Deaf People can offer advice to clergy on including deaf people in the full life of their parishes.
Contact the Chaplain, the Revd John Cowburn:
johnchap@sky.com, 01380 816878
Mission
