Designing Coastal Management Strategies for Populations with Distinct Needs: The Case of Learning Disabilities

Abstract

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA 1995(DDA , amended 2005, Equality Act (2010), EU Disability Action Plan (2003Plan ( -2010 and EU Disability Strategy (2010-2020 were designed to make equal opportunities a 'reality'. As 16% of the EU population is statutorily disabled, there are considerable implications for beach management. Common research examples given of beach users include swimmers, anglers and water-sport enthusiasts -but rarely people with learning disabilities (LD). This paper assessed the viewpoints of a group of beach users with LD and considered their appreciation of three different coastal classifications in South Wales, UK. Because of the nature of their disabilities, the research applied a participatory photo-interpretation methodology (photovoice) at these three beach locations.The research then compared the LD ranking of beach issues with rankings provided by members of the general public at the same beaches. The results demonstrated some similarities between LD and general public coastal needs, but identified the need for specific