Teenager launches campaign for an accessible pathway at Sewerby clifftops
A 16-year-old wheelchair user is leading a campaign calling for improved accessibility at Sewerby Clifftops – with hopes of making one of the area’s most loved visitor spots easier for everyone to enjoy.
Tommy Hill, who is a finalist in the Yorkshire Pride and Diversity Awards for Youth Voice, is asking East Riding of Yorkshire Council to consider installing a smooth, accessible public pathway from the land train stop across the grassed car park to Bondville Model Village and surrounding visitor areas.
The campaign comes after years of personal experience navigating the uneven terrain as a wheelchair user.
Tommy’s mum, Rachel Hill, owner of Bondville Model Village, says the family regularly hear from visitors who struggle to access the attraction due to the grassed area between the land train stop and Bondville.
“People are often so excited to come on the land train because it’s such a wonderful part of the seaside experience,” Rachel explained.
“But once visitors arrive at the stop near Bondville, the reality is that many wheelchair users, people with mobility difficulties, elderly visitors and families with pushchairs face a really difficult journey across uneven grass and hills.
“For some people, it means they simply cannot visit.”
Rachel added: “Tommy loves independence, but there have been occasions where he has actually fallen whilst trying to get across the grassed area. Watching your child struggle with something that could potentially be improved is incredibly difficult as a parent.
“It has been amazing is the response from the public. So many people have shared their own stories and experiences. It’s become clear this would benefit far more people than we first realised.”
The campaign is being supported online through social media videos showing Tommy speaking openly about accessibility and inclusion, with supporters praising his determination to use his own experiences to create positive change for others.
Rachel says she hopes the campaign also highlights the importance of listening to young people with disabilities and recognising their strengths outside of traditional academic achievements.
Go to tinyurl.com/ynabjuph to find out more about the campaign and to sign the petition.