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Just don’t judge us

ANYONE seen leaving a disabled toilet who is not in a wheelchair, or who is not showing any other signs of a limited ability to walk, can often be the subject of a disapproving look, or even of verbal abuse.

What some people fail to realise is that not every disability is immediately visible, as is the case with anyone whose bodily waste exits the body via a surgically created opening, called a stoma. Changing a stoma bag in clean, spacious environment is essential in order to avoid infection.

Estimates vary, but this is the reality of life for around 130,000 people of all ages in the UK – that is 1 in 500.

Using a disabled toilet is a right for anyone with a stoma, but even then, conditions are often not ideal and most such facilities need to be improved.

There should also be a sign on the door, making it clear that not every disability is immediately apparent, and that the facilities are not just for wheelchair users.

For over 45 years, our UK-wide charity, The Urostomy Association, has been supporting and informing, both before and after surgery, anyone with any form of urinary diversion. Somehow, problems associated with the disposal of urine are still the subject of a very out-dated taboo mentality, and one of our biggest challenges is raising the awareness of the needs of an estimated 10,000 of the UK population who are affected by this.

The next time you feel like challenging someone who is not in a wheelchair leaving a disabled toilet– think again!

BRIAN FRETWELL, Chairman of the National Executive Committee, The Urostomy Association

Funeral apologies

I REGRET I will be unable to pay my respects at the funeral of June Webb of Watling Close, Even Swindon on the 4th August. June’s contribution to Even Swindon Community Centre management was immense for the last 30 years. She will be sadly missed. Our condolences to all concerned.

DES MOFFATT, Councillor, Rodbourne Cheney

MP’s an inspiration

WHAT an inspiration Luke Graham is to the younger generation.

Having gone on to become an MP in Scotland, he could easily have forgotten about his home town of Swindon and all the people here.

But his message to our youngsters is fabulous — put your mind to it and you can do anything. We need more role models like Mr Graham to help our children look forward to a brighter future.

ROSEMARY P DUFF, Old Town, Swindon

Focus on town centre

I DON’T understand what the Kimmerfields Project is for.

Surely it would be better if the council focused on the town centre we’ve got which is being left to rot?

EL PEDLEY, Grange Drive, Swindon