'The shops were only made for people who could walk': impairment, barriers and autonomy in the mobility of adults with Cerebral Palsy in urban England. Issue 3 (3rd May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bonehill, James; von Benzon, Nadia; Shaw, Jon
• Is Part Of: Mobilities. Volume 15:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 341
• Page End: 361
• Publication Date: 2020-05-03
• Subjects: Differentiated mobility -- urban design -- Cerebral Palsy -- wheelchair users -- mobile methods -- video elicitation; Transportation -- Periodicals; 300.5
• DOI: 10.1080/17450101.2020.1746057
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1745-0101

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Based on research carried out with a group of adults with Cerebral Palsy in Birmingham, UK, we consider the complex inter-relationship between the accessibility of the urban environment for those with impaired gross motor skills, and the ability of these people to lead full and independent lives. Drawing on a framework that considers mobility as movement, meaning-making and political, we demonstrate the reality of differentiated mobility. For those with bodies that function outside the presumed operating parameters of the model subjects of urban design, mobility may be possible, but is often uncomfortable and even dangerous, with significant associated effects for impaired people's autonomy. Our study details social and structural, or design, barriers to people's mobility, demonstrating the inter-connection between individuals' behaviour and urban design in a manner that questions a clear distinction between the two. We draw upon the notions of emotional work and a commoning approach to mobility in suggesting that further investment in urban accessibility is squarely an issue of social justice.