This April, we organised two activities aimed at students and special needs service users. These events were designed not only to educate but also to provide firsthand experience that highlights the importance of barrier-free outdoor activities.
Firstly, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Children & Youth Services Jockey Club Heng On Integrated Children & Youth Services Centre, we offered an inspiring accessible hiking workshop and community exploration experience for the F.3 and F.4 students of Tsang Pik Shan (Sung Lan) Secondary School. The students had the opportunity to use the wheelchairs and personally experience the challenges of moving around in the community. This direct experience deepened their understanding of the importance of accessibility features.
Subsequently, we prepared a special hiking event for a group of individuals with cognitive disabilities from the Yang Memorial Methodist Social Service. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, the planned outdoor hiking activity had to be cancelled, and was replaced by an indoor sharing. We introduced accessible trails suitable for all ability levels, shared tips on how to safely enjoy hiking, and discussed the importance of improving accessibility features. This event was specifically designed to accommodate the needs of people with cognitive disabilities, utilising more visual aids and simplified language to ensure that all participants could fully understand and engage.
These two events showcased the inclusivity and importance of accessible hiking, emphasising that nature should be accessible to every member of society, regardless of their physical or cognitive conditions. We look forward to organising more similar events in the future to further promote community integration and understanding.