The Access Group based at SCILL is dedicated to improving access throughout the London Borough of Sutton.  They meet bi-monthly to discuss access issues and how services can be improved. Edwina McCarthy is Access Officer for SCILL and works in conjunction with the Access Group.  The Access Officer checks buildings and planning applications to ensure they adhere to the Disability Discrimination Act and Part M Building Regulations.  The Access Officer also offers advice to shops and businesses on how to improve their services to include people with disabilities.  One major role of the Access Officer is to deal with enquiries from the Public on accessibility and hopefully find a solution.

The Access Group aims to deal with these matters and ensure an accessible environment for all!   If you have had any issues accessing your local services, get in touch with the Access Group who will be happy to investigate further.

You can contact the Access Group and Access Officer at SCILL, 3 Robin Hood Lane, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 2SW or email edwina.mccarthy@scill.org.uk.  Alternatively, you can call Edwina on 020 8770 4040.

Sutton High Street Access Guide
The Access Group in conjunction with the Sutton Town Centre Partnership have recently published the Sutton High Street Access Guide.  This guide gives details on the accessibility of shops and businesses located on Sutton High Street.  The aim of the guide is to inform people of how accessible different premises are so you can plan your trip avoiding potential hazards and access barriers. The guide’s easy to read symbols indicate if there is: An accessible toilet, Chairs to sit on in convenient locations, Ramps and Loop systems.

To see an online version, click here. To receive a hard copy, send a large stamped addressed envelope to Edwina McCarthy, SCILL, 3 Robin Hood Lane, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 2SW.

At the present time, we are updating the guide and a new version should be available in September 2009.