Free Jubilee year accessibility resource launched for parishes
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At Caritas we’re working to remove barriers and ensure accessibility and participation in all aspects of society, for people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. We believe that making that happen is everyone’s responsibility.
As part of this Jubilee year, Minna, our accessibility coordinator, tells us more about a brand new free resource for parishes that we’ve just made available…
What is the new accessibility resource and why has it been produced?
I’m really pleased to say that this is a simple document that helps people understand the concept of accessibility, why it is important and how it can be achieved. I have noticed during my work that people often mistake this to refer to gaining physical access to a building. Simply put – accessibility is about ensuring that everyone can take part and contribute in a way, and to the extent, which suits them best.
Why is this particularly important as part of the Jubilee year?
The church is for everyone! Inclusion is an attitude and a mindset, not only a tick-box activity. However, to develop this mindset, we need to start raising the topics as points of conversation. This resource helps do this and gives people a starting point of considerations.
Could you give a few examples of the kinds of things people can expect to find in the resource?
Yes, there is some information about the things that Caritas is doing, such as offering training and hosting events. But there is also information about what parishes can do to start raising awareness and changing mindsets about accessibility and disability inclusion. There is also information about the volunteer accessibility advocate programme that we have been working on.
How can parishes and others use information in the resource to take action?
Read the material, encourage parishioners to come forward to be an advocate with Caritas. And pray for people’s understanding of accessibility and people can participate in an appropriate way.
What are you hoping the resource will help achieve locally?
Honestly, conversation. One of the biggest barriers to accessibility needs remaining unmet is that people aren’t talking about them! There seems to be a taboo, this needs breaking.
Is there support available to parishes wanting to get involved?
Of course! In fact, clergy and parishes are encouraged to get in touch for support in improving accessibility for people in our local communities.
If people are willing to come forward as accessibility advocates, we offer them full volunteer training and free DBS check with accessibility update checks. We see the advocates as ‘boots on the ground’ and ask that if they need support considering possible solutions to accessibility needs, that they contact us. We can support in identifying unmet accessibility needs and to develop plans in partnership with those affected to help remove and overcome these barriers.
How else does Caritas support people to improve accessibility in their parishes?
We offer community training sessions – some of which are fully funded – as well as working with schools in our diocese, especially through developing understanding of ensuring accessibility – this has been taken up by the Caritas Ambassadors programme too.
We also facilitate larger events where we try to be an example of accessibility and ensure that the input is relevant to parishes. The next one is Sunday October 26 at Sacred Heart Church in Gorton. It includes Mass celebrated by Bishop John Arnold, a free community lunch and input from a variety of speakers who will share their experiences of supporting accessibility needs to maintaining the dignity of others.
How can individuals interested in accessibility in their own parish help or get involved in Caritas and our work?
Consider the volunteer role of accessibility advocate would be my first suggestion, that and perhaps organise to host an information or training session. Then of course attend and encourage others to attend the sessions which we deliver. Any one is welcome to contact me to discuss any element of their own, or the parishes accessibility needs: accessibility@caritassalford.org.uk
If you require the resource or other information in any other format, please get in touch.
Find out more about our accessibility service now: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/service/accessibility-service/