Eight disabled people are needed to help improve services for similar people across the county.

Essex County Council wants the disabled people to interview other people with disabilities to discover what they think of the service they receive.

Derek Robinson, Essex County Council's executive member for community care, said: "We are committed to listening to what our customers want and shaping the services accordingly to meet their needs."

The survey is part of the council's Equal Lives strategy, a five-year plan to give disabled people more independence and choice.

This is the second phase in the process, which began with a telephone survey of 250 disabled people.

While there was an increase in satisfaction with the council's services, there were still concerns about poor access to buildings, inadequate transport and a shortage of employment opportunities.

The disabled people taking part will have to travel to people's homes for the interviews.

They must be aged between 18 and 64 and have good communication skills.

The council will give them a two-day training course during July, pay their expenses and give them £30 per interview.

To apply for one of the places, call Tracey Johns on 01245 434198.

Published Thursday, June 12, 2003

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