Ashley Partridge

East Midlands Trains has partnered up with two police forces to help put a stop to discrimination against learning disabled people on its network.

The rail operator worked with Lincolnshire Police and the British Transport Police to launch the “Keep Safe” scheme.

It focuses on displaying orange stickers and badges in places where disabled people can go for help, if they are being harassed.

Research by the Equality and Human Rights Commission found that many learning disabled people worry about taking public transport. They fear being victimised on trains and in stations.

Some of the people who responded to the inquiry said they had been laughed and stared at. Other passengers also made comments about them.

This led to some individuals changing their travel times or even not going out at all.

Lincolnshire Police said it takes all takes discrimination incidents very seriously.

“We hope people will not suffer in silence and report any incident they experience or witness,” the force added.

If you are victim to harassment, or witness harassment taking place, contact Lincolnshire Police on the non-emergency number 101.

Source: Lincolnshire Police

Lincoln residents have been invited to look at plans to build over 18,000 more homes around the city.

North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey councils have put forward proposals that could shape the next 20 years’ worth of developments.

On Friday, August 10, planning officers will be at the Drill Hall on Free School Lane from 10.30am until 2.30pm.

Visitors will be able to ask questions and learn more about what will happen to the local area.

A total of 18,000 houses will be built in three sites. Greetwell Quarry, Swanpool and Canwick Hill will all host sustainable properties.

A further 80 hectares of land for businesses and employment have also been proposed.

As previously reported, across the county there will be even more construction projects.

By 2031, it is hoped that there will be 42,000 new houses and 140 hectares worth of employment land throughout Central Lincolnshire.

These developments will also include shops, schools, community facilities and road improvements.

The full consultation will last until September 10 and residents will be able to read the proposal documents at central-lincs.org.uk, their local library or at the various council offices in the city.