Forum Topic

Why is Everyone Active against the disabled and unconnected?

The gym in the old town hall used to have an app by which members could book classes for themselves and for other members, if they couldn't for themselves.So I could book for my elderly mum for the one class she really enjoys.Now they have changed it so you have to have an email address to be able to book and you can't switch between accounts without this.This discriminates significantly against those with no email address either because they are old, disabled or have none for another reason - many refugees for instance don't have email addresses.I would have thought that a company running a council facility would be advised not to discriminate against the old, disabled and vulnerable in this way.I have taken this up with the most senior manager available who says, as do the desk staff, that they have no idea why Everyone Active now has this policy, but there is nothing they can do about it.I wonder what the council's view is. .

Sara Nathan ● 3070d4 Comments

I've had problems too - not with Everyone Active - but with something else because of a shared email address.  It is as if they are now being used instead of an ID card.  FIL had never used a computer - many people haven't - and don't have email.  Have you taken this up with the Council yet?Age UK would be interested in this discrimination I'm sure!  Paul's workaround is useful for those with smartphones and computers.  It's the kind of solution that they might at least offer at the desk to make it easier for some more people - even if it isn't a solution for all.

Philippa Bond ● 3068d

Unfortunately, Maire the classes get very booked up and you have to do it a week ahead...sometimes in the small hours!So if I am working one Tuesday in Stratford, trying to book her in for the next Tuesday, before the class is full, is a trial. And Paul, good suggestion but I think the email has to be associated with the account. Maybe I will try that though.But surely the principle is the same - even if we can find a practical workaround - that a company working on behalf of the council, should not discriminate against those who, for whatever reason, can't access technology.

Sara Nathan ● 3069d

I assume that there are no checks made on the email address to verify that it is really directly controlled by the person concerned.So you could create one called SaraForMum@somewhereorpther and then add that email account to your phone.

Paul Webster ● 3069d

Not that I agree with the Everyone Active policy, but I have noticed that people without e mail or otherwise not able to use the App just quietly book through the helpful staff at the front desk.

Maire Lowe ● 3070d