29 June 2010 - Learners get an insight into disability awareness 

TBG Learning’s Barking and Dagenham learning centre celebrated disability awareness month by visiting their local shopping centre’s Shopmobility store.

Learners aged 16-18 took time out from their studies to visit the store which helps people with mobility problems to get around the town centre independently, with freedom, confidence and dignity.

The group talked to staff at the centre about the obstacles people with mobility problems face when visiting the shops. Store manager, Stewart Mceachran, talked about the organisation, the range of services, equipment and assistance that the store offers. He said: “I’m really pleased that these young people have shown real effort to understand more about disability awareness.”

The store had a range of mobility scooters which the learners test drove. Edward Wise, a TBG learner, said: “I enjoyed the visit. I liked trying out the scooters. I found the whole experience was interesting.”

Disability awareness month is part of TBG Learning’s calendar of events that highlight equality and diversity issues. Mina Mistry, TBG Learning centre manager, said: “Many of the young people learning with TBG have been previously disengaged at school and often leave with few or no qualifications. It is so positive to see these young people enthusiastic about learning again and show real interest in their community and the problems many people face around equality and diversity.”

The centre is looking forward to next month’s topic of global music.