More than 25 local organisations across the borough have come together to launch the first disability network in Kingston upon Thames.
One in seven people (14.4%) in Kingston live with a disability according to the Office for National Statistics.
As part of the council’s initiatives during UK Disability History Month, the Kingston Disability Network was introduced at Kingston Riverside on November 16.
Councillor Sue Ansari, Kingston’s Disability Champion, said: “This network will be a place where people can come together to share knowledge and experiences and have a greater platform to raise awareness.”
Kingston is among 13 London boroughs that have been granted funding from the London City Hall as part of its Supporting London Boroughs Engagement Project.
With the support of London Councils, Kingston Council is now going to work with the local disability community and explore potential opportunities over the next few months.
Local residents, organisations and businesses can get involved by filling up an online form on the council’s website.
Cllr Alison Holt, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development & Leisure, said: “One of our key priorities is to create a borough where all of our residents have the opportunity to enjoy the facilities we have to offer.”
To improve the accessibility of local sports and wellness activities, the council has partnered with Places Leisure, who where named outstanding organisation of the year at the UK Active Awards.
As an example, they are currently working to create a dementia-friendly aqua class at the Malden Centre swimming pool.
Accessible and inclusive activities also play large part in the design of the new leisure centre that is being built in the Kingston town centre.
The replacement for the old Kingfisher Leisure Centre, which was demolished in 2022, is expected to be finished by 2027.
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