Wheelchair ramps????

[KatieMac]

Before we start can I just say, I am having one, I haven't considered giving up and having steps etc....BUT

I am having an extension built, I am a childminder, I truly believe in Equal Opps etc.
I am expected to build a wheelchair ramp. This is going to cost me over £1000 and apparently I am not elegible for any funding because I work from my own home. If I worked in a setting (eg Nursery) I would be eligilbe for help.

I have been told I can ignore the law and put steps in as that will cost about £200.

I think this is unfair to me (because of the cost) and unfair to potential customers (eg Mums of children with that particular special need) - who may never find a C/Mer 'cos most will go with the cheaper option.

What do Mumsnetters think?

Thanks what I said Coppertop - I am gutted.

I really want one - but it is not going to be possible at that cost. I was really going to struggle to afford about £1000. It's not fair (said petulantly - like a four year old)

i wonder if remap would help?

They make stuff for cost or donations i think

Thanks Lou33 - but on the website they say they can only supply to users. I think by implication I am a 'business' so not eligible.

However it has given me the idea to contact the adult ed people and our local college to see if the students can build it for practise......

That would mean materials/food & drinks/etc for the lads (both male & female)

I might also see if there are any support placements which help people with disabilities and learning difficulties into work. They might be able to help

yes but it says a user could be you or someone you know, so it would be worth a try

It's at the bottem of the 'Who to Contact' Page

Anyway I've put something in chat.....well you never know??

what about scope?

Sorry I didn't get back to you Lou, I'm looking at wooden (decking) ramps now - aparently they might be cheaper.

can't believe they make it so hard for you to do something so worthwhile, and then say they are trying to make this country disabled friendly!

If I wasn't such a stubborn cow I'd have steps
and stuff the DDAct

Katie, i saw ds2's ot today and mentioned your problem. She told me that the Red Cross loan ramps out to people in your situation, so it may be worth contacting them.

Thanks again Lou, I will try and contact them

I think my problem is that I don't need one. However if I don't have one then I'll never need one.

Unless I can offer disabled access I won't get enquiries from people with mobility problems

that's why she thnks the red cross would be able to help you.

Well I will give them a ring.....Thanks again

anytime