• IF UK figures on people with a disability are reflected in Camden, we might expect there to be around 56,000 residents with a range of handicaps.

My experience, as I slowly drift into disability, was met with a lack of awareness of disability.

My first attempt to get assistance to move my 25kg wheelie-bin moved the three metres to my front gate was, following a visit by two council officers, to be told that there was obviously nothing wrong with me.

To get assistance I was told I probably need a letter from my GP. Fortunately, our local councillor sorted this.

The incident, however, highlights the issue of hidden disability. This was a number of years ago and one might have expected some changes.

Fast forward to 10 days ago. Documents came through the door from the council in a format which totally failed to follow RNIB guidance.

I challenged an officer for a similar failing and his excuse was that he had not had any training in disability!

I understand that officers undergo training on such topics as racism and similar matters. What training is available on disability and how many officers and councillors have undergone this?

Six days ago I was invited to a meeting – face to face – on disability but was told by an anonymous officer that I could only attend if I had registered a negative Covid test with the NHS.

Such a requirement is not made of councillors’ face to face meetings. Why was it then to people with disabilities and their carers?

After my vigorous intervention as some of us would be unable to meet the requirement for lack of internet access, this requirement was changed.

Hopefully the panel will continue to address these issues and the council can become a more friendly and less hostile to people with disabilities, visible and invisible.

MICK FARRANT, NW5