Some months ago you printed my letter regarding the UK's leading speed dating agency - SpeedDater Ltd (The Argus, March 10) which ran regular events in Brighton but there was no wheelchair-access to the venue. I am disabled and was therefore unable to attend.
Since this disappointing experience, I have been in contact with SpeedDater. After some persuasion, Brooke Ellingworth, the Events Manager, promised to use a venue in the Brighton area which was accessible to disabled customers.
However, there is little sign of a search for a venue by SpeedDater.
In an attempt to find a suitable venue, I wrote to a number of establishments myself. Some expressed interest in having their premises used for SpeedDater events. SpeedDater, alas, were less enthusiastic.
I recently attended a presentation about the new amendments to the Disability Discrimination Act due to come into force in October 2004.
The presenter spoke of "ostrich organisations" burying their heads in the sand and disassociating themselves with the Act.
Could SpeedDater be positioning themselves in this category? I hope not. But something is causing a lengthy delay. Could Brighton really be so backward in its provision for the disabled that it cannot yield a single wheelchair-accessible venue suitable for speed dating events?
As I type this, I am aware I am using technology capable of putting me in touch with every corner of the planet. How hard can it be?
-Julian Henley, Burgess Hill
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article