Lisburn lights up for International Day of Disabled People 2020

December 3, 2020

Lagan Valley Island is lighting up purple tonight to celebrate International Day of Disabled People 2020. This is an annual global celebration and a chance for the disability community to come together as one voice, both to celebrate achievements made in this area but also to focus on the challenges that disabled people continue to face.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Chair of Corporate Services Committee, Ald Paul Porter, supports this initiative wholeheartedly. He said: “Today we remember the importance of removing barriers for people living with disability. This year’s theme ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’ focuses on building understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as learning differences, sight or hearing impairment and mental illness.

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation and disrupted routines have greatly impacted the lives and mental wellbeing of people with disabilities across the country. Spreading awareness of invisible disabilities is more crucial than ever as we continue to fight this virus.”

Alderman Jim Dillon MBE, Chair of the council’s Development Committee added: “We are also delighted to announce, on International Day of Disabled People 2020, that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has agreed to further invest an additional £35,000 in our signature play park at Hillsborough Forest.

"This investment will be used to provide play equipment designed to increase accessibility and play opportunities for children with additional needs.”