Most people in Grahamstown walk in and out of buildings on a daily basis. They put one leg in front of the other, and don’t give it a second thought.
But then there are also people in Grahamstown who cannot do that, people who are disabled and who have to think twice before they are able to gain access into certain buildings around the city.
Most people in Grahamstown walk in and out of buildings on a daily basis. They put one leg in front of the other, and don’t give it a second thought.
But then there are also people in Grahamstown who cannot do that, people who are disabled and who have to think twice before they are able to gain access into certain buildings around the city.
All major shops in Grahamstown have ramps to allow access for customers in wheelchairs and on crutches. The High Court, which is an important building in any city, has wheelchair access from the side behind the stairs.
However, across the road is the Magistrate’s Court which only has stairs leading up to it, but extensive wheelchair access indoors.
Other important buildings around the city include City Hall, the municipality and the Department of Home Affairs, all of which are equipped at the entrance.
The City Hall is even equipped with a lift inside and the police station is also fully equipped with a ramp inside and outside. Restaurants are other establishments which are generally well-equipped for wheelchair and other disabilities access.
While in others, one is able to go through the door without too much hassle, but interior staircases inside makes accessibility impossible.
Some shop owners concede to the fact that their shops make it difficult for wheelchair access. “I acknowledge that this shop does not have the best design, and I’ve never had to deal with a customer in a wheelchair, but if I did, I would do everything in my power to help them,” says Brendan Barry, manager of Graham Liquor Store.
Red Café owner, Justus Wagener also realises that his coffee shop is not accessible for wheelchairs. “Not only wheelchairs, but older people too.
There have been times when I’ve carried wheelchairs up these stairs, I’m always happy to assist.” He adds that these are the drawbacks to having a restaurant on the top floor.
Although a few places around town cater for people with disabilities, there is still so much which can be done to expand that access to allow movement inside and outside of buildings, and expand to more places than the ones which do have access.
