Since 1981 the 3rd of December has been International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDfPwD). It may be a long name but it does what it says on the tin. It is internationally a day to recognise the achievements and contributions of disabled people along with celebrating our diverse community.
Chelmsford Borough Council and Chelmsford Area Access Group (CAAG)
have organised an event at the Chelmsford Sport and Athletic Centre, in Melbourne, Chelmsford from 10am until 4pm (3rd December 2009) in support of ‘Help for Heroes’ – a charity that supports wounded Armed Service personnel and British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association’ (BLESMA) and some of their members will be at the event showing films, giving personal accounts of their experience and their service.
The day will also include a Wheelchair Basket Ball Display between III Para and The Essex Outlaws, Musician and Entertainer James Maggs, The Mencap Gateway Dancers, guest speakers as well as many exhibitors and information stands and the chance to meet the heroes of 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment.
A number of partners are closely involved in supporting the event such as Essex Fire & Rescue, SMP Consultancy, Tactile Signs, Participation Network Forum (PNF)- a stakeholder organisation funded by Essex County Council and POS-COMM.
Chelmsford Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, Councillor Nicolette Chambers, said: “This event is part of a world-wide celebration of positives towards disability gained at birth or throughout life. The event seeks to highlight the remarkable contribution of our service personnel and their sacrifice for their country.”
She added: “We are trying to make sure that their sacrifices and contributions are valued. The message will be empowerment, support and understanding. This is a day for disabled people to be proud of, to wear their colours with pride and for the rest of society to face up to the challenges that face us in ensuring equality and dignity for disabled people who are our family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.”
Tickets are free and can be booked by calling the Chelmsford Theatres Box Office on : 01245 606505. We will be holding a grand draw to raise money for Help for Heroes so please give as much as you are able for your event programme, available in advance and on the day. Money from advertising in this programme will also go to the charities so call today to purchase an advert.
For more information about the event, or if you wish to volunteer at the event, please contact Chelmsford Borough Council’s Access Officer Paul Houghton on 01245 606328
