Yesterday, on 4 May, the general meeting of the Estonian Security Companies Association (ETEL) took place in the environmental education centre of Tallinn Zoo, where the best of the year in the security market were recognised as well. Beaches for disabled persons that were created under the leadership of the city of Tallinn were recognised as worthy of the title "Deed of the Year 2022".

The first Estonian beaches for disabled persons where people with mobility issues can enter the water using a special wheelchair were opened in the Pirita and Pikakari beaches last summer. Both beaches have three wheelchairs with floats, appropriate changing cabins, a terrace with a shelter and containers for storing equipment. A ramp almost reaching the sea has been built for entering the water. An appropriately trained employee assists clients, hands over the equipment and helps the swimmer prepare for entering the water safely. To ensure safety, the swimmer may only go into the water with a personal companion.

Deputy Mayor Betina Beškina accepted the recognition award and said that the construction of beaches for disabled persons was a necessary step in improving accessibility in urban spaces. “While walking on our own feet, we may often not realise what obstacles a wheelchair user faces. These obstacles may sometimes be insurmountable and pose many limitations. Last year, beaches for disabled persons were created in cooperation between the Tallinn Welfare and Health Care Department, the Põhja-Tallinn and Pirita district governments and the security company G4S, so that enjoying the summer beaches would not be out of reach for people with mobility disabilities. I am glad that the service has received a warm welcome and brings joy to many people this season as well.”

Henry Seemel, head of the G4S Coast Guard, stated that the company is happy to be part of such an important project. “This year, we will make Pikakari and Pirita beaches even more convenient for users and we hope that Tallinn will be an example for other municipalities in this and that swimming opportunities for people with disabilities will soon improve elsewhere as well."

The accessible beach service is open every day from 12:00 to 18:00 throughout the official beach season from 1 June to 31 August and is free of charge. On weekends, we recommend reserving a wheelchair in advance by calling +372 5666 2455. Information is also available on-site and in Tallinn’s accessibility information system lips.tallinn.ee.