"If people do not have money for bus fares, etc then this makes most places inaccessible"

Where we live there are community groups, various clubs and classes, job shops, Educational, Health and Well-being groups, playgroups, drop in centres and money advice agencies. Local churches and centres also have lunch clubs which are heavily subsidised by donations and charities. If people can afford a small donation, they can pay what they can, if not the meals are free. There are also separate men’s/women’s groups, disabled/carers groups and many more, too many to mention. This is all fine and well, but the barriers for using these facilities are too great for a lot of local residents.

Unemployment and resultant lack of money is one example. If people do not have money for bus fares, etc then this makes most places inaccessible. Therefore, job interviews are missed because most employers want an updated CV and certificates of previous experience. A lot of people need to go to centres like Douglas and Rainbow House where there are computers and staff on hand to help with downloading and printing information that’s required. Also the sad fact is that these services are not fully utilised. Going for an interview also requires applicants to look tidy and presentable for some in our area this is not possible because, feeding families and paying bills is a priority, not new clothing