A BARRHEAD man has helped organise an event to get people with disabilities living the night life.

Michael McEwan, chairman of the East Renfrewshire Disability Action (ERDA) group, has started working with the Stay Up Late Scotland initiative, which organises special gigs and club nights for people who have conditions such as autism.

The group has organised Sample Fest 2018 at Mono Cafe Bar in Glasgow, featuring live music and information on the latest projects and support available to those with special needs. 

Gig Buddies, dates-n-mates, and Include Me 2 Club will also be on hand to offer advice.

Michael said: “The idea came about because I found a lot of people with disabilities lacked the confidence to go to the pub or nightclubs.

“The aim of Sample Fest is to get people out and prove there should be no barriers to people with disabilities or mental health issues when it comes to having a bit of fun.

“A lot of organisations are supporting us because they feel it’s something that’s badly needed.

“And it’s not just for disabled people, it’s open to anyone, because I don’t feel there should be any divisions among us in society.” 

While going out to see bands, clubbing or meet friends is part of everyday life for lots of people, for those with disabilities it can present a lot of challenges and sometimes be quite intimidating.

Michael added: “The most common issue we see - and I hear it happens a lot - is bouncers refusing entry to people they think are drunk, when actually they have cerebral palsy or some other similar condition.

“People might walk differently or have slurred speech and they’ll be knocked back. 

“It happened to a friend of mine quite recently.

“We’re trying to change attitudes and make it possible for everyone to go to the pub or a gig if they want.

“Disabled people don’t want to be wrapped in cotton wool, especially as they get older. 

“You want to live your own life to its fullest.

“Beyond this gig we want to introduce Gig Buddies, which is a system that will help people who don’t have the confidence to go out on their own find a buddy to go with. 

“That’s already up and running in Edinburgh and we’d love to bring it to this part of the country.”

Sample Fest 2018 takes place tomorrow (Thursday) at the Mono Cafe Bar between 2pm and 5pm.

To confirm a place, contact Martin Frater by emailing martin.f@in-controlscotland.org or calling 07425 692284.

To find out more information about Sample Fest, go to www.facebook.com/Stay-Up-Late-Scotland-2016690928553668.