New project connects disabled people in Dumfries and Galloway to essential services
Pilot aims to improve access to vital services
A new pilot project in Dumfries and Galloway is set to make waves in supporting disabled individuals across the region by enhancing their access to essential services.
The initiative, funded by the Scottish Government, introduces Community Navigators to assist with navigating health, housing, benefits, advocacy, and more.
In collaboration with DG Voice, the only region-wide Disabled People’s Organisation, two new Community Navigators will work on this mission.
Tracey Saunderson, who will manage operations in the east of the region, has already started addressing issues faced by the community.
"I’m delighted about getting this project up and running so we can start to help people access the services they need," she said.
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Saunderson emphasised the importance of this initiative in rural areas.
"We are one of the first rural regions providing Community Navigation and we know that disabled people in rural areas face additional barriers so we want to bring help to them in their communities," she added.
Her work so far has involved assisting individuals with social housing applications, securing appropriate benefits, and arranging volunteering opportunities.
“It’s my job to help people understand their rights and get access to the services they need,” Saunderson explained.
She brings years of valuable experience from various sectors, leveraging connections in health, social care, and local authorities to identify service gaps.
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“This pilot is a great opportunity to really make a difference for disabled people in the region and I am excited to be part of it,” Saunderson said.
Kim Dams, Chief Executive of DG Voice, played a pivotal role in steering this project to the region.
“This is a great opportunity for us to highlight to Ministers the kind of issues disabled people face when they’re trying to access services in rural areas,” she stated.
Dams highlighted the unique challenges Dumfries and Galloway may face, differing from urban examples such as the successful Glasgow Disability Alliance's city-based Community Navigator programme.
“If anyone would like to talk to us about the role of Community Navigator in the West of the region please email or phone".
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