An Exhibition Promoting Independence Throughout Life and Work
Warrington Disability Partnership, the organisers of the UK’s, and possibly the world’s largest free to enter, voluntary led pan disability exhibition, are finalising the plans for this year’s 34th annual Disability Awareness Day (DAD) show.
DAD, as it is affectionately known will be held on Sunday 13th July (10am till 4.30pm) in the magnificent grounds of Walton Hall and Gardens, Warrington, Cheshire, off the A56. It will be the finale of a week of complementary events, visit the website for more details, at www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk.
Local disability education specialists Expanse Learning Group and the north west’s water supplier United Utilities, are leading the list of sponsors for DAD 2025.
The aim of the event is to promote independent living through the theme “It’s what disabled people can do that matters”. DAD 2025 exhibitors will highlight solutions supporting independent living and mobility, with equipment, products, transport, employment, education, training, health and social care, leisure activities, alongside over 100 charities/support groups.
What to Expect On the Day
Visitors can gain an insight into the help and support that is available locally, regionally and nationally from statutory organisations, businesses and voluntary sector groups.
Most of the exhibitors will be housed in a huge, tented village of marquees that will be supported by; an extended Sports Zone, a Main Arena, a huge Performing Arts Marquee, with some of the UK’s leading disabled artists.
Three further marquees will house a range of arts activities, including the new “Access All Areas” Arts Project, a collaboration between Warrington Disability Partnership and Culture Warrington, which will include a gallery showcasing the work of local disabled artists.
Also new for DAD 2025 is a programme of “have a go” workshops in the Arts Zone. Hosted by Walton Lea Partnership, another addition is the Chillout and Wellbeing Zone in the Courtyard behind the Greenhouses.
The Sports Zone offers “have a go” sports activities including Tennis, Snooker, Rugby League, Martial Arts, Tai Chi, Football and Scuba Diving in the on-site pool. In addition, Warrington Youth Zone’s giant sports inflatables. There will be a demonstration by a Para-World Strongest Man contender from The Titan Gym.
For those looking for a more relaxed day we will have a fantastic line-up of talent in the Arts Marquee. Alternatively, sit alongside the Main Arena watching Guide Dog display team, Reach Sled Dogs Display Team, Batida Rio Samba Band, Royal Marines Corps of Drums and sports demonstrations.
All this and a Silent Disco, Circus Skills and play areas and fairground rides, plus Walton Gardens accessible onsite zoo, crazy golf, high ropes and pitch and putt.
Free Accessible Travel on the Day
Support services at DAD 2025 will include a free accessible Park and Ride service, free accessible buses from Warrington Town Centre courtesy of Warrington’s Own Buses, a free mobility scooter and wheelchair loan service (subject to availability), British Sign Language interpreters, additional unisex wheelchair accessible toilets and over 60 trained stewards and helper’s eager to make it a day to remember for everyone.
Disability Awareness Day, Sunday 13th July at Walton Hall and Gardens.
For more detail contact Kate on 01925 240064 or visit www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk
Editor’s notes
Warrington Disability Awareness Day is a user led charity based in Cheshire which aims to support the needs of disabled people, their families and carers in the North West of England and North Wales. WDP actively promotes independent living through information, advice and guidance on all disability matters.
WDP has over 30 years’ experience of developing and delivering mobility and independent living services, our aim is to support disabled people and people living with long term health conditions and their carers and families.
