Frome’s assets – its interesting heritage and beauty, which draw so many people to the town, with its stepped entrances, leat and old historic buildings – are exactly what create barriers for a significant number of people who could become new and valued customers to its many varied and unusual shops, say Fair Frome’s Access for All group.
The charity is working to improve customer access to all Frome traders, in particular those on Catherine Hill/Stony Street/Cheap Street, by encouraging participation in a market style event in an accessible venue, which is targeted directly at people who may experience difficulties shopping due to mobility or other issues in these historic areas of Frome. The Access for All Market will take place on Sunday 2nd February, 10am-2pm.
They say, “The objectives of the market are: To move away from a sense of blame regarding lack of access and to move towards a creative and engaging way of increasing revenue for traders; To support the vibrant and unique retail economy in Frome; To build on Frome’s wider profile as a place for the independent minded and link this with the independent living movement that supports access and social justice for people who can otherwise be excluded.
“Fair Frome is hosting this free entry event at the Cheese and Grain and will also be welcoming stalls from groups that support those with disabilities in the town to complement the shopping experience. There are still some spaces available; please contact Lenka Grimes at Fair Frome on fairfromeinfo@gmail.com or 01373 488578
“Fair Frome’s Access For All was set up over two years ago, with the aim of highlighting issues around accessibility, promoting positive aims and encouraging businesses and venues to make small changes that can have a large impact for those who experience difficulties. Whilst focusing on the challenges faced by those with a disability, Access For All recognises that better access makes things easier for everyone.”
Karen Stewart, who is a trustee for Fair Frome said, “This Access For All Market will be a fantastic opportunity to promote accessibility, offering people who usually cannot shop in Cheap Street or Catherine Hill the chance to shop and browse, as well as a great opportunity for local support groups to talk to people about the valuable services they offer.”
