Policy and Practice for the Disabled and Juveniles
Introduction: CARA Membership as currently constituted is open to all regardless of age and ability. CARA has a duty of care towards all those attending its Meetings and Events. Minors must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian who remains responsible for their charge at all times.
Monthly Meetings: We currently meet in a public building with wheel chair access and purpose built toilet facilities: Wheel chair visitors have been successfully accommodated at our monthly meetings.
Training: CARA is starting training courses in 2014 and the training page on this web site gives details. Training is also undertaken as a cooperative effort with members of the Gloucestershire Amateur Radio and Electronics Society. The location used is either a hired facility like the Churchdown Scout Hut or a conference room at Gloucestershire airport or sometimes, in the case of a small number of course members, a private dwelling.
Examinations: Examinations are held at the address registered with and approved by the RSGB and administered by volunteers meeting the standards set by the RSGB. There is an approved system for examinations at home where travel to an exam centre is inappropriate.
General Assistance: While presently no formal policy exists, individuals from within the membership may provide voluntary help of an appropriate kind dependent on circumstances. Individuals will not necessarily have any formal relevant training or experience. Where members who have specialist skills are willing and available, their experience should be used but they are under no obligation.
RAIBC: It is to be born in mind that The Radio Amateur Invalid and Blind Club (RAIBC), a UK registered charity, No 802348, has considerable experience in this area and can and does loan suitably modified equipment.
Conclusion: The above is believed to cover the perceived requirements of the two groups, which has to date been born out in practice. Every occasion requires individual careful evaluation and should be treated on its merits. The duty of care applies to CARA Members who help as well as to those assisted: The objective should be to offer “Appropriate Assistance with Care”.
February 2013