The Prime Minister is being asked to spare 15 minutes to meet campaigners who want him to get councils and developers to install wheelchair-friendly equipment in play areas.

The Torquay Herald Express is already backing a call for changes in the law.

Its Fair Play campaign could force developers and local authorities to provide better facilities for disabled and special needs children in their parks.

Ann Williams, a former Mayor of Torquay, and founder of the charity Friends of Special Needs Children, believes the short meeting would be enough to persuade Mr Blair to back the campaign.

In her letter to the Prime Minister she said: “I’ve spoken with four local authorities in my area and all were receptive to my request to adopt this as a policy for future provision.

“But as I am unable to approach every local authority in the country I felt I must go to the top, hence my letter to you.”

A 13-year-old teenager who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, is hoping to accompany Ann Williams on a trip to Downing Street.

Christian Phillipson, from Brixham, will tell Mr Blair of the isolation of handicapped youngsters who are unable to join in playground activities.

Ann said in her letter: “Christian is very frail and in a wheelchair and as there is no provision for him in play areas, he can only sit and watch. This is a plea that would enable so many children to be able to play together.”

Back to the campaigns index

Do you have a story for us?
Ring the HoldTheFrontPage newsdesk on
01332 291111 x6022, or e-mail us now