“We fight for people with disabilities”

“Invalid parking spaces located more than 100 meters from the metro, terraces being expanded without considering wheelchair accessibility, a non-functioning elevator on a platform, wheelchair-accessible toilets filled with cleaning supplies. These are all examples of situations that are unacceptable.” Marianne and Bonny talk extensively about their efforts for Accessible Amsterdam North (ANT), advocating for equal opportunities for people with disabilities.We are conducting the interview at the beach club “de Verbroederij,” which they have also ‘inspected’ for accessibility for people with disabilities. They have looked at accessible and usable toilets, disabled parking spaces, and how wheelchairs can access the café.

“Civil servants should sit in a wheelchair for once”

Bonny has been active at ANT for almost 20 years. After retiring, she wanted to do something useful with her knowledge. “I have a technical construction education and can therefore read drawings well.” Marianne, the chairperson, has been active at ANT for five years. She is very good at organizing all sorts of things. “For me, justice is really my driving force.” Bonny adds: “It is simply very important that everyone gets equal opportunities. It is becoming increasingly difficult for the elderly to participate. Civil servants should try sitting in a wheelchair more often themselves!”

Improve quality of life

The findings of ANT go to Client Interest Amsterdam, which then advises the Central Traffic Committee. Client Interest Amsterdam is an independent advocate with a clear goal: to improve the quality of life for people in a vulnerable position due to their (potential) physical, social, intellectual, or psychological limitations. They work closely with over 100 volunteers. ANT actually consists of five volunteers, three of whom are board members.

On the way

“We started with 7 or 8 volunteers and we used to have meetings every month. It was really cozy,” says Marianne. Bonny: “And besides that, we of course go out. We inspect a complicated intersection, we put stickers on buildings once they are approved by us. We have also stood on a street corner with a questionnaire asking people about the obstacles they encounter on the street. Especially now that we are also including buildings, we are understaffed. So reinforcements are always welcome, and we would also like to pass it on well to a new group of people.” Marianne: “It’s fun to brainstorm. You really have something to contribute.”

Are you enthusiastic?

Interested in volunteering for Amsterdam Noord Toegankelijk? Send an email tomariannevdv@zonnet.nlCurious about all the volunteer opportunities in Amsterdam?
In our online job board, there are more than a thousand. For everyone’s talent and schedule.Search online or make an appointment with one of our mediatorsHello.Interview: Thecla Groot KoerkampPhotos: Jackie Mulder