The Issue:

As a community, we believe in fairness, inclusivity, and respect for the independence of every individual, especially those who rely on mobility aids to maintain their freedom and dignity. My mother and our neighbours are among many disabled residents who depend on these aids for their daily lives.

Unfortunately, ongoing construction work on the blocks of flats across Telford Road and adjoining streets has created significant accessibility challenges, particularly for those with physical disabilities.

South Lanarkshire Council’s enforcement of communal area policies, coupled with a lack of meaningful engagement from the local housing officer, has only worsened the situation. Threatening letters by South Lanarkshire Council have been sent to residents, targeting the use of mobility aids while ignoring the presence of hazardous items such as discarded furniture, waste, and needles in other areas of Telford Road.

This unfair campaign against one block of flats with a higher percentage of disabled tax payers leaves vulnerable residents struggling to navigate daily life. With cars regularly parked across dipped pavements and fewer options to store mobility aids, many disabled individuals in the community risk being made housebound.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

When accessibility is denied to one group, it reflects a broader failure to uphold fairness and equality in our society. Are more disabled residents across East Kilbride to be in fear they will be targeted next by the local council?

The Legal Framework:

Under UK law, public authorities have a duty to ensure disabled individuals are not unfairly disadvantaged or excluded. Key legislation supports our petition.

 1. Equality Act 2010

 • Protects individuals from discrimination based on disability, requiring reasonable adjustments to remove physical barriers and provide equal access.

 • Section 20 mandates public bodies and service providers to anticipate and accommodate the needs of disabled individuals, particularly during periods of disruption like construction.

 2. Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED)

 • Part of the Equality Act, the PSED requires authorities like South Lanarkshire Council to:

 • Eliminate discrimination and harassment.

 • Advance equality of opportunity for disabled persons.

 • Foster good relations between people with and without disabilities.

 • Councils must assess the impact of their policies on disabled individuals and take steps to minimise disadvantage.

 3. Scotland’s Equality Duty

 • Under the Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties) (Scotland) Regulations 2012, public authorities must assess and report on how their decisions affect disabled individuals. Current actions by South Lanarkshire Council appear to fall short of these requirements.

 4. Human Rights Act 1998

 • Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) guarantees the right to private and family life, including living with dignity and independence. Article 14 prohibits discrimination in the enjoyment of these rights.

 5. Building (Scotland) Act 2003

 • Construction projects must comply with accessibility standards under Scottish building regulations. Temporary adjustments such as ramps, clear signage, and alternative pathways are essential to meet these obligations.

South Lanarkshire Council’s actions—or lack thereof—fail to meet the standards required by these legal frameworks, leaving disabled residents at a disadvantage and putting their independence and dignity at risk.

Our Demands:

We call on South Lanarkshire Council and other relevant authorities to:

 1. Mitigate Accessibility Barriers:

 • Provide temporary measures such as ramps, clear signage, and alternative pathways to address the barriers caused by ongoing construction work.

 • Construct lockable sheds for mobility aids to allow safe storage without occupying communal areas.

 2. Reassess Communal Area Policies:

 • Revise policies to accommodate mobility aids and essential equipment while maintaining communal area safety and usability.

 3. Ensure Legal Compliance:

 • Fully integrate equality and accessibility into current and future projects, adhering to the Equality Act and Scotland’s Equality Duty.

 4. Improve Communication with Residents:

 • Provide clear updates on construction progress and outline the measures being taken to address accessibility concerns.

Why This Matters To You:

Accessibility is not a privilege—it is a necessity. Disabled residents of East Kilbride deserve to live with dignity and independence, free from unnecessary barriers. Public funds should be used to promote inclusivity, not to create hurdles for the most vulnerable members of our community.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

We urge South Lanarkshire Council to uphold their legal and moral responsibilities by taking immediate action to:

 • Protect the independence of disabled residents.

 • Ensure accessibility remains a priority in all projects.

 • Build a community that supports everyone.

Join the Movement:

Sign this petition today to demand meaningful action from South Lanarkshire Council. Together, we can ensure that fairness and dignity remain at the heart of our community.

Visit East Kilbride Community Association on Facebook, private message and get involved in other campaigns or bring something to our attention.

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s stand united for equal access and inclusivity.