Handiplage opens in Larvotto
In Monaco, the disabled and individuals with reduced mobility are able to enjoy all the pleasures of the beach in Larvotto, thanks to specially adapted amenities and trained staff. This is the sixth consecutive year that Handiplage has been open at no charge to residents and tourists, whether 10 or 90 years old. For the first time this year, the Monaco Government has partnered up with the Club Service Soroptimist, which originally created the site. Activities are led by a team of three qualified seasonal workers, headed by a team leader. The initiative is part of the Government policy, developed over the last few months, to the benefit of the disabled and under the Department of Social Affairs and Health.
However, the Club Service Soroptimist is continuing its support, particularly as far as parking facilities are concerned, by offering all visitors to Handiplage 3 hours free parking. Public car parks have been adapted to make access to the beach easier in wheelchairs, particularly electric ones. In effect, disabled individuals are taken care of as soon as they arrive on the beach. They are accompanied onto the Larvotto beach jetty, specially fitted out a few months ago by the Department of Urban Planning. All individuals are given assistance according to their wishes, either for getting into the water or for using one of the three sea access aids available. Monitoring is provided until individuals are back in their wheelchairs after swimming. Such a system provides undeniable psychological support.