Last autumn, TrailWatch hosted the first Accessible Trail workshop, inviting those who enjoy nature walks to participate and get to know the country parks once again. In this article, we have invited a member to share their thoughts and observations.
Ernest Kam @ Accessible Trail Explorers team
The idea of hiking for people with disabilities had been impossible in Hong Kong for many years. Recently, whilst the emphasis on an inclusive society increased, hiking became popular. I am one who enjoys such activity as well, and therefore, I participated in TrailWatch’s Accessible Trail Explorers team and started to gain an understanding of their aim.
TrailWatch’s experiential learning classes allowed me to be empathetic and have a better perception of wheelchair users’ actual situations. Difficulties such as the size of transportation, the range of vision whilst operating the wheelchairs and the user’s physical strength had all been anticipated before. But when I truly experienced the situation and became involved in discussions, reflection exercises and provided feedback, the challenge was even more difficult than previously expected.
Furthermore, after testing some so-called ‘accessible facilities’, I realised that they exist only in the name. For example, the accessible notices and the accessible toilets in country parks are examples of facilities that don’t meet the requirement in today’s society
These hands-on experiences made me wonder if it will deflect the interest in hiking for wheelchair users. This is why promoting a motive for wheelchair users to participate in hiking activities is the most important discussion. This is not only done by having a good relationship with and communicating well with wheelchair users, it is hoped that all related parties can step up their game. The public should encourage wheelchair users to hike, accessible hiking trails should be publicised, better policies from the government should be promoted, and truly accessible facilities should be established. Just like that, we can all enjoy the pleasure of hiking.