Daisy Hill station, transforming access for passengers
Members of the community and accessibility campaigners joined Bolton Council Leader, Nick Peel, and MP for Bolton West, Phil Brickell, to mark the official opening of a new lift at Daisy Hill station, providing passengers step-free access for the first time. The completed scheme makes the station – which is run by Northern – much easier to use for passengers, especially those who are wheelchair users, have limited mobility, or are travelling with bicycles, pushchairs or luggage. The new lift is part of a £4m investment in accessibility upgrades at the station, which included installing an accessible toilet, enhancing the station’s accessible car parking facilities and upgrades to the ticket office and booking hall to create a new lift lobby area. Completing the scheme marks the beginning of a rolling programme of accessibility works, with Transport for Greater Manchester to deliver step-free upgrades at 10 stations over the next three years – twice as many than in the preceding decade. Currently, fewer than half of the city-region’s stations (43%) are accessible. Using money from the government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) and the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme, 63% of Greater Manchester’s stations will be step-free by March 2028. This forms part of Greater Manchester’s wider plans to bring eight commuter rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028, building a more inclusive and accessible public transport network and delivering major improvements to stations, services and passenger experience. The Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Nick Peel, said: “Bolton was among the first areas to join the Bee Network back in 2023 and I’m proud that we’re now also home to the first of the railway stations that will see accessibility improvements. “Public transport is a vital lifeline for many people in our communities including those with disabilities and I would like to thank our local councillors for their hard work on this campaign. “Making stations accessible is not a ‘nice to have’, it brings an essential service into the reach of more people and improves their opportunities and quality of life.” Phil Brickell, MP for Bolton West, said: “It’s heartening that Transport for Greater Manchester has a programme of works in place to improve access for people with disabilities. We need to bring our railways up to a standard that adheres to the 2010 Equality Act and into the 21st century. The lack of accessibility across railway stations in Bolton West is something which needs to be addressed. “I’m very grateful for the tireless work that Cllr David Chadwick has put into ensuring that Daisy Hill station has accessible facilities to the platform. He has been a true advocate for those with disabilities to be able to travel on the rail network. Whilst there is still work to be done on other stations to make the railway a truly accessible form of travel, this is a great step in the right direction for the residents of Westhoughton.” Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “Thanks to £2.75m of Government funding, a new lift and improved accessible facilities at Daisy Hill station will change how people get around Greater Manchester – paving the way for better connections around the UK. “We’re clear in our ambitions for our transport network to be accessible so people can travel easily, confidently, and with dignity, so it’s great to see the impact our Access for All programme is making.” Passengers at Daisy Hill can now walk or wheel to the station and benefit from step-free travel directly into central Manchester within 35 minutes. Accessibility campaigner, Nathaniel Yates, welcomed the improvements at Daisy Hill station and the rolling programme of improvements. He said: “The installation of the new lift at Daisy Hill station is great progress and I’m delighted that it is now open for people to use. “I’m sure it will make a real difference to the wellbeing of people who require step-free access and potentially it will unlock another mode of transport for people who live in the Daisy Hill area.” Work to install lifts at Irlam station are also due to complete this spring, while step-free access schemes at Swinton, Hindley, Bryn and Reddish North are all scheduled to be underway next year. Improvements at Flowery Field, Newton for Hyde, Bredbury and Levenshulme are to follow. Dame Sarah Storey, Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, said: “People with disabilities or mobility issues should be able to make seamless journeys across the city-region and there shouldn’t be barriers to anyone using trains to reach their destination. “The much-needed accessibility improvements at Daisy Hill station are a welcome first step towards our ambition to make every station accessible for people with disabilities, as well as those with pushchairs and bikes, in Greater Manchester. “Through the Bee Network we can build an inclusive public transport system that truly works for everyone, supporting growth, jobs and access to opportunity. While we look to make more stations step-free we also need to audit and make sure that the routes to them are safe and accessible for people walking, wheeling and cycling that part of their journey.” The improvements at Daisy Hill station are part of a collaborative effort between Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), Northern, and Network Rail, with funding provided by the Department for Transport’s Access for All Scheme and GMCA. Craig Harrop, regional director for Northern, said: “We’re delighted these fantastic new facilities are open and are confident they will make it easier for disabled customers and people with limited mobility to use Daisy Hill station. “We are working closely with partners like Transport for Greater Manchester to improve accessibility for people who travel across our vast network and give them the confidence to travel by train. Despite the progress we have made, we are not complacent and always welcome feedback so we can continue to make improvements and provide the best possible service.” Tommy Fleming, Network Rail’s sponsor for the project, said: “The newly installed lifts at Daisy Hill station are an important milestone in our commitment to making rail
Children with SEND are being “over diagnosed”.
Mel Merritt, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the National Autistic Society, said: “Nigel Farage’s comments are wildly inaccurate and show that he’s completely out of touch with what autistic children and adults have to go through to get a diagnosis or any support at all. For the record, absolutely no one has got an autism diagnosis through the GP – this is just incorrect, wrong, fake news. Children with SEND and disabled adults, including autistic people, are not victims who are being ‘over diagnosed’. They are people who face huge delays and long fights to get the most basic support across every aspect of their lives, including SEND diagnosis, education, health and social care. Spreading misinformation only perpetuates stigma and makes life harder. We’re calling on all politicians to drop the political point scoring and stand up for their autistic and other disabled constituents.” https://www.autism.org.uk
More than £3,000 was raised for the Wetwheels Foundation
More than £3,000 was raised for the Wetwheels Foundation on Sunday 13 April at the hugely successful Big Boat Jumble, held at Eastleigh Football Club and delivered in partnership with organisers Squidward 3 and charity partners Pantaenius UK. Hundreds of boating enthusiasts turned out to buy and sell second-hand marine gear, grab a bargain, and most importantly, support a cause that makes boating accessible to all. Proceeds from pitch fees, admissions and generous on-the-day donations will help fund barrier-free powerboating experiences for disabled and disadvantaged people through Wetwheels’ national fleet of fully accessible boats. Team organiser, Darren McKell from Squidward 3, commented, “I’d had the idea of a boat jumble to raise funds for the Wetwheels Foundation, a charity close to our hearts. As ambassadors for brands like Suzuki, Lowrance, and Shimano, and with regular time on the water onboard Squidward 3, we’ve seen how fishing and boating boost mental health. Wetwheels offers that same joy to those who might never have the chance, which really struck a chord. Pantaenius jumped at the idea and, through their link with Eastleigh Football Club, helped secure a venue and build a plan. The marine community’s support was incredible – with raffle prizes donated by Pantaenius, Suzuki, Lowrance, Mendez Marine, Spinlock, Railblaza, Cox & Rawle, Mustang Survival, and many more. But the biggest thanks go to everyone who came, booked pitches, bought tickets and showed support. We raised a fantastic amount for an amazing cause – and can’t wait to make next year even bigger!” With everything from winches and wetsuits to ropes, radios and rare finds on offer, the jumble was as much a community celebration as it was a fundraiser. The car park was busy from start to finish, creating a fantastic atmosphere with a shared purpose—to give more people the freedom and joy of being on the water. Wetwheels founder Geoff Holt MBE said, “We were delighted to be involved with the Big Boat Jumble. With Pantaenius UK already a major supporter and our mutual fishing friend Darren McKell behind the idea, everything clicked from day one. Darren did an amazing job organising the event from scratch – the Eastleigh Football Club venue was perfect, and it was fantastic to see so many familiar faces turn out to sell boating bargains and raise money for our cause. £3,000 is a huge amount, and on behalf of all the trustees and Wetwheels operators, a massive thank you to everyone who attended – buyers, sellers, and sponsors – and to those who donated some amazing raffle prizes.” Pantaenius UK played a key role in the event, with a well-stocked pitch and strong industry backing. Simon Hedley Head of Commercial Partnerships, commented: “When Darren approached us with the idea, we were keen to support however we could. Wetwheels has been our national inclusivity charity partner for years, and we love what they do to promote barrier-free boating. We were blown away by the generosity of industry friends – Spinlock, Lewmar, Highfield RIBs and SMG Group – who donated raffle prizes and stock for our stand. The funds raised will make a real difference.” Wetwheels extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part, donated, or came along to show support. Events like this help fund unforgettable experiences at sea for those who need them most—and bring the boating community together in the best possible way. For more information or to support the Wetwheels mission, visit: www.wetwheelsfoundation.org
Dancer with Down Syndrome
An up and coming Cheshire dancer with Down Syndrome says he has ‘found his purpose’ and is now set on a professional career in dance. Twenty-year-old Ben Wilson from Northwich was named an associate artist at Winsford-based Cheshire Dance in 2023 and has now also won a coveted place on a training programme for d/DEAF, disabled, and neurodivergent dancers with Frontline Dance in Stoke on Trent. Since starting his training, Ben, who has been dancing since he was 13, has also discovered a talent for choreography. He will premiere his new dance piece, which features himself and three other dancers at Now Northwich Festival in May 2025. Called Step Ahead, the work is suitable for audiences of all ages and explores themes around friendships and relationships. It features different styles of dance including contemporary and hip hop and even some poetry. The group will perform several times throughout the day at Barons Quay Square. Ben, who first experienced dance as a young teenager at the Down’s Syndrome Cheshire and Cheshire Dance run DS Dance group in Winsford, is also a football fan and is a regular assistant coach at Egerton Football Club in Knutsford. But he says dance is his first love and hopes to one day run his own dance studio in the local area. Ben said: “Being a Cheshire Dance associate dancer means so much to me. I get to work with different teachers and dance artists and have time to really develop my career in dance. “Before this, I didn’t know that I could become a dancer or a choreographer. Cheshire Dance has shown me that this is an option for me. “Dancing makes me feel free and lets me express all kinds of emotions, both good andbad. I love the freedom of it: it’s like a fire inside. It means I can express my emotions and it helps me to deal with things that can be difficult for me. “I believe that lots of different types of people and bodies can dance, no matter howdifferent they are!” A local lad through and through, Ben is delighted to be bringing his work to the free Now Northwich festival of dance and street arts on Saturday 3 May 2025. He said: “My whole life is based around Northwich and so, to be able to present my first dance piece for four dancers at the Festival feels amazing.” Emma Thomas, producer, Cheshire Dance, said: “Ben has been working with us as a dance associate for the last two years and is on an incredible dance journey. “He is open to trying new things and is very hard working. He is a beautiful mover with a unique style and voice. “Watching him grow and learn about a dance world that isn’t created for someone with more challenges is an incredible process. He rises to every challenge presented to him and I see great things ahead for him. I believe Ben has a very bright future in dance.” Ben Wilson’s Step Ahead is at Now Northwich on Saturday 3 May 2025. More information at www.nownorthwich.co.uk
EE DISABILITY FA CUP
The EE Disability FA Cup will make its highly anticipated return for its ninth edition this summer, taking place at St. George’s Park across the weekend of 28-29 June 2025. This year, the tournament will feature a new name, as the EE Disability FA Cup. Following their continued support and partnership of the tournament since 2022, EE becomes the official title partner for the next four years, enhancing the competition’s alignment with its other prestigious counterparts – The Emirates FA Cup and the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. The EE Disability FA Cup brings together six formats of impairment-specific football: Amputee, Blind, Cerebral Palsy, Deaf, Partially Sighted, and Powerchair. Played across six finals at St. George’s Park, the competition provides a platform for disabled players to showcase their talent on the national stage, at the home of England football. As a key pillar of The FA’s Disability Football strategy – Football Without Limits – the EE Disability FA Cup plays a vital role in the growth and awareness of disability football in England. The strategy’s aims include increasing participation and the number of coaches, creating an inclusive talent pathway, building support for elite players, and raising awareness of disability football at all levels. The full schedule for this year’s EE Disability FA Cup will be confirmed in due course. James Kendall, Director of Football Development at The FA said: “We are thrilled to welcome EE as the title partner of the EE Disability FA Cup. The refreshed name and logo further elevates the competition as a key event in the national football calendar, in line with our other FA competitions. This event is a celebration of the incredible talent in disability football, and we look forward to an exciting, action-packed weekend at St. George’s Park.” Kelly Engstrom, Brand Communications Director, EE said: “We are delighted to be continuing our support for the EE Disability FA Cup, with our status as title partner demonstrating our commitment to amplifying and celebrating para and disability football. Since joining in 2022, we have been privileged to witness the growth of this tournament, and have no doubt that this year’s iteration will continue to serve up brilliant moments and opportunities for players, coaches and fans too.”
From Mobility Scooter to Marathon
How I Transformed My Life with Mindfulness, Natural Living, and Determination by Samphire Hayes …Six years ago, with my world consumed with pain, despair, and a sense of isolation, I bought a mobility scooter. Walking had become an excruciating struggle, and as a result, I was missing out on the joy of taking my children on outings. While their father filled the role of the adventure companion, I sat at home, increasingly frustrated and depressed. The relentless pain in my body not only hindered my ability to live the life I desired but also prevented me from being the mother I longed to be. A diagnosis of fibromyalgia and degenerative disc disease delivered a crushing blow, with doctors proclaiming that I would endure a lifetime of pain. However, fueled by a determination to redefine my reality, I embarked on a path of acceptance and sought ways to regain control over my life. Every day felt like a prison sentence. I woke up, instantly consumed by the pain that awaited me. Simple tasks, such as walking to the bathroom or taking a shower, became monumental challenges. Despite the pain, I soldiered on, getting my children ready and driving them to school while I struggled to keep my agony hidden. The school playground, where parents gathered, became an emotional minefield for me. I desperately avoided eye contact, fearing that any interaction would prolong my time on my feet when all I longed for was to retreat to the comfort of my home. The desire to connect with other school mums simmered within me, but it was easier to withdraw, keep my head down, and only engage when absolutely necessary. Back at home, I spent my days on the sofa, seeking solace in the television, using it as a temporary escape from my own reality. But the pain persisted, and guilt consumed me as I often had to send my children off to entertain themselves with electronic devices due to my inability to play with them. My misery grew, further exacerbated by the disorderly state of our home, leading to arguments with my husband, who failed to comprehend the depths of my pain. To the outside world, I appeared fine, concealing the invisible battle I fought daily. Seeking relief, I embarked on a relentless pursuit of solutions. Medications such as antidepressants, anti-seizure tablets, and potent painkillers. I consulted physiotherapists, rheumatologists, and neurosurgeons, yet their efforts fell short. Frustration grew as I found myself lost within the medical system, with fragmented care and no communication between my doctors. The fatigue of battling chronic pain wore me down, and I grew disillusioned with the healthcare system. Determined not to accept their prognosis of a lifelong struggle, I sought a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. Embarking on sessions with a compassionate counsellor and openly discussing my challenges marked a promising beginning, and I began to learn more about mindfulness. One evening, during my children’s bedtime routine, the pain overwhelmed me. Collapsing on the floor in tears, I found solace in an unexpected source of support. My three-year-old son had absorbed the mindfulness techniques we had learned together and urged me to focus on my breath, guiding me through deep inhalations and exhalations. In that moment, I realised the immense power of mindfulness and the breath. His reminder to breathe became the catalyst for my journey to recovery. Inspired by the impact of mindfulness and the breath, I began prioritising its practice in my life. Gradually, I ventured outdoors for short walks in the nearby meadows, allowing the beauty of nature to soothe my soul. Though initially cautious due to fear of flare-ups, I persisted, taking one step at a time. Seeking to share the healing power of therapy, I decided to train as a counsellor, drawing from my own experiences. The journey of becoming a counsellor proved transformative, unveiling the realisation that my identity had become synonymous with pain, overshadowing my ability to offer compassion to myself and others. The training enabled me to develop empathy and use my own struggles to support those navigating similar paths. Seeking to further improve my well-being, I delved into the realm of evolutionary health. Collaborating with renowned natural lifestyle coach Tony Riddle, I engaged in natural movement sessions and adopted practices such as barefoot walking and sitting on the floor instead of my sofa. Though initially challenging, these adjustments brought surprising benefits. My hips opened up, lower back pain began to ease, and within months, I progressed to longer walks and even started running again. Immersing myself in nature and incorporating cold water therapy, I continued to witness improvements in both body and mind. Along the way, I embraced Tony’s mantra, “Playing with the edges of discomfort,” allowing me to transcend fear and push past self-imposed limitations. Additionally, I explored the impact of nutrition on pain and inflammation, making dietary changes that further reduced flare-ups. Miraculously, just under a year after first transitioning to ground sitting, I walked the London Marathon. Now, as I reflect on my journey, the progress I have made feels nothing short of miraculous. Friends and family are amazed by my transformation. I have since trained as a natural lifestyle coach, integrating counselling, mindfulness, nutrition, nature therapy, breathwork and movement to empower others on their paths to thriving. I wholeheartedly believe that true healing encompasses both the body and mind, and by addressing both aspects, we can unlock our full potential. Embracing a life without chairs and fully immersing myself in natural living has not only transformed my physical well-being but has also allowed me to break free from the limitations imposed by chronic pain and its impact on my mental health. Today, I guide and support individuals, empowering them to make the changes they feel capable of and to realise their full potential. I acknowledge that my path may not be suitable for everyone, and some may find it socially unconventional. However, I speak from personal experience—once dependent on crutches and a
“Find the cause of autism”
Tim Nicholls, Assistant Director of Policy, Research and Strategy at the National Autistic Society, said: “Autistic people aren’t fodder for a cheap, fake news publicity stunt. We’re stunned by the callous and anti-science way autistic people are talked about by Trump and RFK Jr. Wouldn’t it be better if they could deploy their huge financial resources to making life better for autistic people and their families, and improving society’s understanding of autism? We’ll say it again for those who still haven’t got the message – vaccines don’t cause autism. It’s time governments around the world listen to autistic people, get with the times and join our movement for a global society that works for autistic people. We urge everyone looking to find out more about autism to seek high-quality factual information from our charity’s website www.autism.org.uk.”
Blind Students: They’re Not Just in the Back Row
Gone are the days when blind students were hidden away or excluded. Today, blind students are in the front row—participating in class discussions, working on group projects, and using technology to engage with materials like their sighted peers. How Do They Do It? 1. Accessible Learning Materials: Thanks to digital tools and tech advancements, textbooks and resources are available in braille, audio, and accessible formats. Whether it’s listening to an audiobook, using screen readers, or reading braille, blind students have options for how they access learning material. 2. Tactile Learning Tools: Learning isn’t just about seeing; it’s about touching, feeling, and interacting with the world. Braille, tactile diagrams, and 3D models help blind students understand complex concepts in subjects like math, geography, and science. 3. Tech Integration: With voice-controlled software, apps like Be My Eyes and magnifiers, blind students can access notes, communicate with classmates, and navigate campuses independently. They’re not just using tech; they’re innovating with it. The Role of Educators: Being Inclusive, Not Pitying Teachers play a huge part in breaking down barriers for blind students. The best teachers don’t treat blind students differently—they adapt the curriculum and classroom environment to ensure everyone has an equal chance to succeed. That might mean creating accessible lesson plans, encouraging open communication, and promoting understanding among classmates. The Power of Inclusion When blind students are included, the whole classroom benefits. These students bring unique perspectives, determination, and creativity to their work. They also demonstrate resilience—an invaluable trait for everyone to learn from. Real-Life Examples: Blind Students Succeeding Against the Odds Take the example of Haben Girma, a blind and deaf Harvard Law School graduate who has become a leading advocate for disability rights and accessibility. She proves that with the right tools, blind students can not only succeed—they can change the world. Closer to home, blind students in various school systems take top maths, science, and sports honours. In fact, some schools have specialised programs designed to support blind students in achieving their academic dreams. The Takeaway Blindness doesn’t limit intelligence. It simply means a student learns differently. As more schools and universities implement accessible tools and inclusive strategies, blind students are proving that all it takes is the proper support and mindset for them to thrive in education. Let’s stop viewing blindness as a barrier to learning. With the right tools, resources, and attitudes, blind students are leading the way in breaking down educational barriers—and their future is bright! Find out more To find out more about empowering students with sight loss, visit https://visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com
31% of fintech platforms meet basic web accessibility requirements
A study by TestDevLab analyzed 100 of Europe’s largest fintechs and found that only 31% fully meet basic web accessibility requirements regarding keyboard navigation and focus visibility. 51% of surveyed fintechs met requirements partly, with features that are not entirely accessible, available, or intuitive. The remaining 18% could not be analyzed due to various reasons. The study was conducted in the runup to the establishment of the European Accessibility Act, an EU directive that will come into force on June 28, 2025. It demonstrates that despite the act coming into effect soon, many fintech companies are unprepared. The study reviewed the home pages of multiple banking and fintech companies, examining whether interactive elements were navigable via keyboard. The study reviewed the home pages of multiple banking and fintech companies to ascertain if users can navigate them only using a keyboard – a basic requirement defined by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. The analysis focused on things like how easy it is to move around the page, if each element that receives keyboard focus has a visible focus indicator so that users can understand where they are, whether there are any issues with focus moving to invisible elements, if the keyboard allows users to move through the page in a logical order, and if users can easily close any content that appears over the keyboard focus, such as website popups. The directive aims to ensure that online experiences, such as websites and mobile apps, are available to people with a variety of disabilities. An estimated 100 million Europeans have web accessibility limitations, which is 1 in 4 Europeans. One study showed that accessibility and user improvements can significantly boost a company’s revenue, bringing back approximately €90 euros for every €1 invested. Despite that, many websites do not meet even the basic accessibility standards. Fintech companies are on the cutting edge of technology while simultaneously offering financial services. Their ability to ensure accessible online experiences is crucial to foster financial inclusion. However, with 70% of fintech platforms failing to meet basic accessibility requirements, people with disabilities are being marginalized, thus contributing to a widening tech accessibility gap. https://www.testdevlab.com