Equalbase

On 12th May, Andrew and Jo visited EqualBase in Cheadle. They spoke to the members and staff about what physical activities they do to stay healthy.  All members gave information about different activities they do with EqualBase, such as swimming, walking, gardening and more. Some members explained how they have competed in swimming competitions for the Special Olympics. One of the volunteers, Shaun Burrows explained he competed in the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, running the T38 400m and competing in the final. He said this is how he started to attend EqualBase as they supported him throughout this, sharing their support on Facebook and putting a message of support on the outside of the building. He said he now plays football more than running but is currently sidelined with a knee injury.

Members told us they like to go to the leisure centre, MyActive Cheadle. however, they have been informed that this is closing for refurbishment. EqualBase support staff said that there is work that needs to be done to make this accessible for people with disabilities due to the toilets and the gym being on 1st floor and parts not accessible for wheelchairs. They are concerned that without the leisure centre, there are less facilities for the members to use.

The staff also said that they have been looking for a bigger venue, however, they are struggling to get a venue that is accessible. They said that they would love to work with developers to explain to them what is needed to make properties accessible to all.  Another issue raised was that there is nothing in the local community for adults with additional needs in the evening. The members said they like to go to discos, however, there is nothing local for them, and the nearest one specifically for disabled adults is in Stafford. Members also told us they would love to have a pop-up movie venue for adults to go during the day, apart from the cinema.

This was our first visit to EqualBase in a while but we made a video with them and shared it with the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Learning Disability and Autism Partnership Board in March 2023. You can see the video here: https://youtu.be/0BR3GBL5BN4?si=aHd7FOHQmvMPR2vB