A BLIND couple have set up shop in Dudley town centre to offer information and help to fellow disabled residents throughout the borough.

Volunteers from Dudley Centre for Inclusive Living (CIL) have moved into the Time Step Community Hub on the lower floor of Plaza Mall off King Street and will be on hand to advise and help disabled people at two weekly drop-in sessions.

Every Monday and Thursday, between 1pm and 4pm, residents can get information about blue badge parking, direct payments, social care, public transport and access to work, as well as disability friendly holidays and restaurants.

Dudley CIL was set up in March 2010 by avid campaigners Ken and Tracy McClymont, from Woodside , who both have disabilities themselves and are registered blind.

Tracy said:“All of our volunteers have disabilities and we think that this puts us in the best position to support others with disability-related issues. Our service will change people’s lives by empowering them, giving choice and opening up a world of opportunities.”

The group has been supported by new charity Time Step Community Hub which has given meeting and office space to several community groups.

Vicky Parkinson from The Hub said, “We host 44 regular weekly classes and we still have lots of space. We decided to share some of it to help other local groups who are making a difference in our community and are absolutely delighted that Dudley CIL is coming to join us.”

For more information about Dudley CIL visit dudleycil.org.uk