Nature is an essential part of our lives, offering peace and serenity, particularly therapeutic for those experiencing health issues. Recognizing this, Stuart ‘The Wildman’ Mabbutt, a prominent figure in local wildlife circles, is advocating for improved accessibility across 20 routes in Oxfordshire to accommodate all disabilities and abilities.
On October 9th, 2024, Stuart convened the inaugural meeting of The Genuine Disabled Countryside Access Task Force at St Mary’s Fields in Kidlington. The group tested the accessible route, made observations, identified barriers, and proposed solutions. This initiative involves a diverse range of stakeholders, including Cherwell District Council, the local volunteer group, Oxford County Council, Active Oxfordshire, Vale Of White Horse District Council, Unlimited Oxfordshire, South and Vale District Council, My Vision, Enrych Oxfordshire, Community Catalysts, The Growing Space Project, local Parish Councils, BBOWT, Fat Squirrel Outdoor Co, local disadvantaged youth groups and Wild Oxfordshire and Wildlife and Countryside Link, and various other local volunteer groups and disability organizations.
The five-year project aims to enhance accessibility through comprehensive mapping, improved car parks, gates, bins, signage, and routes. The vision is to create a sustainable management plan that future generations can build upon, ensuring long-term accessibility without the need for repeated efforts.
Engaging the local population, disadvantaged youth groups and wider disability community from the outset is crucial for broadening funding options, fostering collaboration, and enhancing co-production. Success will be measured through both tangible and intangible results, leading to a robust management plan and meaningful, lasting partnerships.
The focus on solutions rather than problems is key to driving impact. A positive vision of the future inspires better public engagement and support. Improved access reduces the societal barriers that contribute to the extent of disability experienced by individuals, emphasizing that one is only as disabled as society enables us to be.
Sustainability is also a priority, with materials and processes used in improvements and maintenance designed to have a low or no carbon footprint.
The St Mary’s Fields Volunteers Management Group, chaired by Julia Trowles, has already made progress, such as fixing the radar gate key. Future plans include resurfacing and widening the circular path and redesigning the entrance, although weather conditions have delayed some efforts.
Rachel Sanderson from TOE has expressed interest in contributing funds towards the improvements across the county. Stuart, leveraging over 36 years of industry experience, is establishing a Community Interest Company (CIC) to drive this change and welcomes input from other interested parties and disabled groups.
An online TEAMS meeting happened December 4th at 9:30 am to discuss strong progress at St Mary’s. An initial site visit to Brasenose Woods has also been planned on January 8th at 1:00 pm to review the accessible route there, with Aston Rowant being the third route to be assessed.
This initiative represents a significant step towards making Oxfordshire’s countryside accessible to all, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature.
To find out more email Stuart or sign the petition https://www.change.org/p/improve-the-oxfordshire-countryside-accessibility-for-all-disabilities-and-abilities
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