Deadline approaching for No Barriers Awards nominations (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Deadline approaching for No Barriers Awards nominations

4:50pm Friday 28th September 2012 in Local By William Tomaney

THE closing date is approaching for nominations for the fifth Mike Oborski “No Barriers” Awards.

Applicants have until next Friday, October 5, to put forward local businesses, individuals or other organisations that make a significant contribution to improving access, service or employment possibilities for people with disabilities.

The awards were set up in memory of long-standing Wyre Forest district and Worcestershire county councillor Mike Oborski who died in 2007.

Awards panel chairman, Labour councillor Howard Martin , said: “The idea of the scheme is to recognise commitment to inclusive access.

“This can be demonstrated in different ways such as whether an organisation has accessible entrances, adequate parking facilities, clear easy to read signs and easy access toilets.

“Helpfulness and friendliness towards customers is another key factor. The panel will be looking for a clear commitment of employees or volunteers to the needs of customers with disabilities.

“We look forward to receiving nominations from across Wyre Forest as the awards continue to be a fitting tribute to the memory of Mike Oborski, who was a great servant of the community for so many years.”

The awards panel is made up of a selection of members from the public, private and third sectors.

Previous winners have included Sainsbury’s in Kidderminster, The Granary Hotel, Ray Middleton Garage, Arley Arboretum and Just for Pets in Kidderminster.

Nomination forms are available from the Worcestershire Hub customer service centres at Kidderminster Town Hall and Load Street, Bewdley and Community Housing offices in Stourport as well as The Shuttle’s Blackwell Street office.

They can also be downloaded from wyreforestdc.gov.uk/nobarriers