Issue - meetings

A series of written questions were received from Nazarella Scianguetta on the subject of disability accessibility in the Borough, specifically in relation to high streets shops and cafes, parks and Council housing, and also on support provided by Adult Social Care and services provided for Aids & Adaptation.

Speaking to the Committee, Nazarella Scianguetta explained that disabled people in the Borough faced a range of challenges with accessibility. She informed the Committee that wheelchair users often could not access some shops due to produce and other obstacles occupying the floor space, some cafes due to a lack of ramps, or some parks because there were not sufficient pathways. She asked the Committee what the Council would do to improved accessibility and ensure that disabled people were able to fully participate in the local community.

Cllr White noted that there had not been sufficient notice of the questions to obtain a full response from Council officers but that a response would be requested and provided to the next meeting of the Committee.

Cllr Small explained that the most recent meeting of the Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel on 23^rd June 2025 had received a report on the issue of aids and adaptations. He suggested that the minutes of the meeting could be provided for information (NOTE: The report for this topic is available to view at: https://www.minutes.haringey.gov.uk/documents/s152115/Housing%20Aids%20and%20Adaptations%20Scrutiny%20Report%20-%20FINAL%20VERSION.pdf and the minutes are available to view at (see item 241): https://www.minutes.haringey.gov.uk/documents/s153658/Minutes%20-%2023%20June.pdf

Nazarella Scianguetta emphasised the importance of involving disabled people in meetings where relevant issues are discussed.

Cllr Gunes noted that inclusivity was an important consideration with parks, particularly in relation to visually impaired people, and that this policy area was part of the remit of the Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel. As the Chair of this Panel she would be happy to look into any specific concerns.

RESOLVED – That the Committee write to the relevant service Departments to obtain written answers on:

·       Disability accessibility in high streets and town centres

·       Disability accessibility in parks

·       Disability accessibility in Council housing

·       Aids & Adaptations

·       Support provided by Adult Social Care