SUNDERLAND shoppers can discover the services and products which can make their lives easier, when the Bridges hosts its first Disability Awareness Week.
Organised by Ross Care, which runs the shop mobility scheme at the shopping centre, the event from 5 – 9 March is aimed at showcasing the range of support available.
Ross Care has drafted in a whole host of experts each day of the week, including those who can advice on benefits and debt and occupational therapists, while also showcasing the range of equipment that is now available.
On Monday 5 March the morning session will allow shoppers to get welfare rights advice from Citizens Advice, while also having the opportunity to talk to a Ross Care mobility advisor on aids that could enhance their independent living.
Sunderland West Advice Project will be available later that same day to give information on benefits, while on Tuesday 6 March visitors can see the range of mobility scooters available and also get information on accessibility from Disabled Go.
Live Life Well – which supports disabled people to make positive lifestyle changes – will also be on hand.
The following day shoppers can speak to an occupational therapist for the Alzheimer’s Society, along with trying out a range of specialist riser chairs.
Age UK will be highlighting the benefits of staying active on 8 March, when Northumbria Police will also be present to give advice.
And the week will end with a Ross Care engineer providing free mobility scooter checks and an advice session hosted by Sunderland Carers.
Ross Care manager Jill Anderson saidd: “Getting out and about can also be of really benefit to people recovering from illness, putting them on the path to better health.
“We hope as many people will come along to the week and not only talk to our range of experts who are there to help them but also see at first hand what is available to help them on a day to day basis.”
Samantha Czwordon, marketing manager at the Bridges, said the centre was delighted to be hosting the event.
“Ross Care has pulled together an excellent programme for the week which we are sure will be invaluable to our shoppers and their friends, families and carers,” she said.
“It’s all about empowering them to lead independent lives and at the time have a helpful and enjoyable experience when they visit the Bridges.”
Further information is available at the Ross Care shop at the Bridges or by calling 0191 514 3337 or emailing sunderland@rosscare.co.uk