A WEBSITE which aims to improve the lives of disabled people and carers by helping them to address problems with accessibility is being launched today.

Selby District Disability Forum (SDDF) hope its website will offer a central point for people to address the barriers that affect accessibility.

The website launch is due to be attended by Selby and Ainsty MP Nigel Adams and numerous representatives from the public and voluntary sector.

Joe Lennon, chairman of SDDF, said: “So often disabled people will feel they are isolated and the struggle to challenge large authorities and services can prove too much for them.

“This website will unite disabled people and offer them a forum to share information, either to seek or offer help.

“It’s a completely positive move. It could address major isues for people which could cost nothing to change.”

Changes to have already been made following SDDF involvement, include moving disabled parking spaces nearer to the building at Selby and District War Memorial Hospital and changing the cups in the hospital café, which were difficult to hold.

The SDDF supports those with difficulties relating to mobility, sensory impairment, dyslexia, eating disorders, weight issues, chronic pain, cancer and incontinence among others.

To make the website more accessible, web pages can be magnified, viewed in a different background and an application can be used to read aloud for people with visual impairment. Mr Adams said: “I very much hope this innovative approach helps in terms of access to services to a far greater number of people than previously.

“The SDDF are to be applauded for taking this approach.”

The launch of the website will be held at Community House in Portholme Road at 10.30am today. For more information or to use the website, visit sddf.org.uk