The largest disability and mixed ability trade show in the North is taking place at Manchester Central exhibition centre today and tomorrow
More than 250 exhibitors will be at Manchester Central Convention Centre for the Inclusion, Independence and Choice Show, bringing with them a range of products and services catered to the disabled community.
According to figures provided by the IIC website, there are currently 11million disabled people in the UK and the North West has the highest concentration with 1.5million.
The free event is open to the public, trade visitors and healthcare professionals, who can benefit from more than 70 hours of accredited seminars by industry leaders.
One of the local groups taking part in the event are Manchester Blind FC, who will be delivering a brief presentation and demonstrating blind football at 10am on Saturday.
Club founder Ruth Walmsley said: “Manchester Blind FC are grateful for this opportunity to publicise that local visual impairment specific football exists for the Greater Manchester community.
“It’s a little nerve-racking as we’ve never been involved in such a big event before, but it will also be interesting to learn what the other exhibitors have on offer.”
The latest wheelchairs and scooters will be available along with adapted vehicles in the super-sized mobility car showroom, while attendees can discover more about the most recent technological innovations.
Other features of the IIC show include a multi-sensory and interactive learning zone, a family activity area, an adaptive sports zone and a showcase of arts and crafts created by disabled artists in the North West.
Visitors to the IIC can also receive free advice from occupational therapists, physiotherapists and other healthcare experts at The Specialist Area, or go to The Pannone Law Zone where solicitors will be on hand to assist with any legal queries.
In the light of the recent changes to disability benefits, there will be financial advisers to help those recipients facing any issues, and information on employment and higher education opportunities.
These include representatives from DWP and UCAS who alongside medical experts, activity coordinators and inspirational speakers will take to the exhibition’s main stage in a series of talks from 11am on both days.
For more information and to register for free tickets go to www.iicshow.co.uk
Picture courtesy of IamHenry, with thanks.
