Justin Tomlinson MP took on the challenge of cleaning up the streets when the charity Guide Dogs offered him the chance to learn more about the daily difficulties faced by people living with sight loss.
Guide Dogs is calling for support for an end to irresponsible parking. According to the charity, badly parked cars are putting the lives of pedestrians up and down the country at risk every day. These vehicles are forcing people to step out into the road, without being able to clearly see on-coming traffic.
The charity used a unique twist on the fun-fair game, Hook-a-Duck, to highlight the campaign and Mr Tomlinson became the guide when he helped a rubber duck navigate a stream full of obstacles.
The MP for North Swindon and Minister for Disabled People visited the stand to find out more about the campaign.
There are nearly two million people in the UK who are living with sight loss and by 2050, there could be nearly four million. So it’s more important than ever that our streets are safe for people who are blind or partially sighted.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “I have been a keen supporter of Guide Dogs UK ever since my election in 2010. Having actively campaigned to change the law on the installation of audiovisual announcements on public transport, as well as raising awareness of the dangers of electric vehicles; I will continue to work hard to support blind and partially-sighted people by championing the work of Guide Dogs UK.”
James White, Senior Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, said: “Parking on pavements is blighting Britain's streets. It puts all pedestrians in danger, particularly those living with sight loss. It is terrifying for someone who cannot see oncoming traffic to take the risk of stepping out into a road because someone has decided to park on the pavement. We hope this year will see this dangerous practice outlawed once and for all, and call on all MPs to back a change in the law."
