Portlaoise College’s 2C class took part in an insightful and meaningful activity at People’s Park in Portlaoise recently.
This event was held as part of Make Way Day, organised in collaboration with the Disability Federation of Ireland and Laois County Council.
Make Way Day is a national initiative designed to foster understanding and cooperation between disabled individuals and the broader community.
It encourages everyone to be mindful of the needs of people with disabilities in shared public spaces.
During their visit to People’s Park, the students identified various obstacles.
Cars and Vans on Footpaths can block pedestrian access, forcing people to walk on the road.
Chained Bicycles and Motorbikes can create trip hazards, especially for visually impaired individuals.
Obstructive Street Furniture, for example items like illegally placed sandwich boards, unattended bins, and barrels clutter pathways.
The students walked through the park, assessing which features are effective and identifying areas where accessibility could be improved in public leisure spaces.
This hands-on experience aimed to sensitise them to the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities and highlighted the importance of creating inclusive public environments.
The initiative proved to be a valuable learning experience, sparking thoughtful discussions on how communities can better accommodate the needs of all residents.
SEE ALSO- Delight as Laois primary school finally opens new and much-needed footpath – Laois Today
