The Community Access Team helps those with physical disabilities
Those struck down with physical disabilities are singing the praises of Hammersmith and Fulham’s Community Access Team (CAT) a year since it was launched.
Established by the council, the five-strong team gives sufferers tailor-made support for 12 weeks. So far they have worked with 86 residents across the borough, helping them achieve everyday things like going shopping or getting on the bus.
Chris Legg, 32, needed help after falling from an escalator at Fulham Broadway centre on a night out.
“My party trick used to be sliding down the banister on the escalator or stairs,” said Chris, who lives in Shepherd’s Bush.
“One of my girlfriend’s friends was a bit miserable so I thought I’d make her smile and cheer her up.”
Then, in what he described as a blur he fell, waking up months later at Charing Cross hospital.
After spending seven months in hospital, day opportunities worker Michael Hooker helped him deal with short-term memory loss and problems with his vision.
Now Chris is able to travel around London on public transport again, and his main goal is to get back to studying his English Literature degree course with the Open University.
Michael also assisted 92-year-old Doris Gordon, who needed help coping with her cancer battle, as she broke her shoulder after having a bad fall at her home in Shepherds Bush.
He helped her tasks such as shopping, carrying her bags, and Doris now sees him as a best friend.
She said: “I feel very lucky. Everything that people have done for me has been brilliant.”
Cabinet member for community care, Councillor Marcus Ginn, said: “These real life stories show that the council is making a difference for some of our most vulnerable residents “
He added: “We will continue to support our residents through these incredibly challenging times to help them regain a real sense of independence, confidence, security and pride.”
For more information about the CAT contact Nia Evans, service manager or deputy manager Jon Cooke on 020 7384 6950 or on the team mobile on 07879667691, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
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