A WOMAN is fighting for wheelchair accessible swings to be placed in her local park and parks across Cheshire West.

Kay Warren, 62, retired, set up the petition after seeing her friend’s disabled daughter miss out when visiting Castle Park in Frodsham.

Her friend, Mandy Povey, a full-time carer, has a 14-year-old disabled daughter, Anabelle, who is disabled and has complex needs.

Mandy said: “Annabelle has always loved parks especially the swings. We don’t visit them now as there is nothing for her to access.

“To be honest as a parent it is heartbreaking to watch other children having so much fun. It’s such a shame as she is missing out on such a lovely experience.”

Kay wanted to do something to allow all children to be able to have fun on a playground.

She said: “If you take disabled children to a playground, they are a spectator. If you look around there is nothing in our local area that is suitable for them.”

After posting on social media and creating a Facebook group, Kay has had numerous people contacting her relating to the issue.

One person who got in touch with Kay was Stacey Nixon, who has a nine-year-old disabled son called Bejamin.

Stacey said: “It is heartbreaking as his mummy to see him become visibly frustrated and upset when he can’t join his peers to play.

“To have a wheelchair swing would be amazing for Benjamin and other children that are wheelchair users to enjoy.”

Kay has received support from the Castle Park Trust Executive Committee which includes Cllr Lynn Riley (Chairman), Cllr Hugo Deynem (deputy chairman), Cllr Paul Bowers and Cllr Chris Basey. 

She said: “I know that in some parks there is the UFO swings, but if a child needs to be hoisted or assistance to get out of their wheelchair, they are restricted.

“Why should I have to fundraise for a child to have equality on a playground when all of the other children have everything they need.

“If you’ve got able-bodied kids and you are asked what you want in a playground you forget and don’t think about the children who are missing out and are wheelchair-bound or have special needs.”

Kay needs 150 signatures for the petition to be brought up at the Cheshire West and Cheshire council meeting.

To sign the petition, click here