Is a disabled person able to move around Venice independently?
Navigating city streets through public transport can be a big problem for people with disabilities. But have you ever wondered what disabled people experience while travelling in unusual cities like Venice, where a large part of public transport is carried out on waterways?
Vaporetto trip
It might seem practically impossible for a disabled person to be able to get on board of a moving water boat while other people are rushing to work or school. Modern society tries not to exclude people but instead find innovative ways to help them manage in public space.
Waiting room
There are gently descending ramps set for people in wheelchairs to get onto the waiting area of the water buses in Venice. The ramps are surrounded by rough yellow and black alternating tape that can be easily seen and felt by partially sighted people. In addition, there are barriers on either side to ensure people’s safety. Although getting down onto the water bus may seem challenging because of the 20cm drop you can request a ramp to be inserted in the place of the drop.
Service in water trams
The staff that open the gates to get on board are very helpful as they help disabled people as well as the elderly and people with pram chairs. In the seating area, there are also spaces dedicated to pregnant women, the elderly and disabled people. Thanks to all this, anyone can visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world, without restrictions, although it would seem that it is difficult due to its specificity. As you can see – nothing is impossible, and various interesting and helpful solutions can be found everywhere.
Adaptation of educational places for people with disabilities
In day-to-day life, we meet various people for whom public spaces aren’t adapted to their needs. In that case, they encounter difficulties that they have to manage. One of the most troublesome moments in a disabled person's life can be during school. Children who leave their parents or guardians for several hours may feel helpless. We have to ask ourselves; if the place where students spend most of their time is designed for their needs.
What helpful facilities can we find for disabled people in public spaces in Italy?
In Italy, a large part of the economy is dependent on tourism, which is caused by the warm climate, beautiful views and easy access to the sea. Everyone would like to visit without encountering problems such as communication or public transportation. Disabled people are a large but unique group of people who have various needs that can make travelling harder.