HAVING returned from a Saturday shopping trip to Leigh Market I felt compelled to write on behalf of all people with disabilities and/or mental health issues.

Having been a social worker for more than 30 years, latterly with Wigan Council, I have been proud of the great steps forward that have been achieved by people and communities in giving people who are ‘labelled’ differently a presence in everyday life.

I bumped into two old friends from work days, one a carer and one with disabilities.

We were chatting near a card stall in Leigh Market. I forbear to name and shame as this would be petty.

In these days of compassion and understanding for those with disabilities I was shocked by the card stall worker’s attitude to my friend with disabilities.

My friend was perusing quiz and colouring books and often buys from this stall apparently.

The stall holder became cross at my friend touching things on the display and moving them out of place.

Surely shop displays are meant to be looked at and there should only be an issue if you are causing damage.

My friend was ignored – only the carer and myself were addressed directly and my friend was described as ‘she’.

I have no idea whether the stall holder is under stress, but I believe this is not the welcome or attitude that Leigh township and indeed the council wishes to promote in respect of its residents with disabilities.

What a sad letter to have to write.

Needless to say I don’t think any one of us three friends will be shopping there again.

Name and address supplied