Community First highlights needs of disabled shoppers in Fareham

Leading charity Community First were at Fareham Shopping Centre on November 7 today to raise awareness of Purple Tuesday.

Purple Tuesday is a national campaign celebrated every year and focuses on improving the customer experience for disabled shoppers and their families.

Community First were joined by other organisations promoting their services, which help vulnerable people including the elderly and disabled, retain their independence.

The team from Community First were in Osborn Square from 10am until 4pm to offer shoppers advice and information about its Shopmobility, Community Transport and Home Help services.

Tim Houghton, Chief Executive of Community First, said: “We’re pleased to be part of this great initiative to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Although Purple Tuesday is just one day on the calendar, we want to ensure disability is never a barrier for people to enjoy normal life experiences.

“We hope retailers think about making the customer experience more inclusive and encourage people to visit our stand and talk to us about how our services can help.”

Community First’s transport services include accessible minibuses that provide a door-to-door transport network across areas in Hampshire, allowing users to access town and city centre shopping.

It operates Shopmobility in Fareham Shopping Centre, Poole and Winchester, which provides access to mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

In Fareham, Havant and the surrounding areas, Community First operates a Home Help service that offers cost-effective assistance for anyone who is unable to do their own basic housework and shopping, enabling them to maintain their independence and get out and about in their local community.

Find out more about Purple Tuesday