Unique initative highlights everyday barriers to mobility in urban spaces

In Hanau, Germany, an initiative led by Rita Ebel is helping non-wheelchair users gain a deeper understanding of the daily challenges faced by people with limited mobility. Ebel was paralysed after a car accident about 30 years ago and through her “Change of Perspective” project, is inviting pedestrians to navigate the city centre in wheelchairs, accompanied by Ebel and her team of volunteers.

Participants quickly discover how physically demanding it is to move through urban spaces in a wheelchair. Steep inclines, narrow pavements and high thresholds prove difficult to manage, even with guidance and encouragement. Many report moments of fear or near falls, highlighting how intimidating and inaccessible public areas can be for wheelchair users. These experiences often lead to a deeper sense of empathy and understanding.

A central feature of the project is the colourful Lego ramps designed and built by Ebel and her team. While they do not meet official German accessibility standards, these ramps offer a creative and practical solution in places where space or infrastructure is limited. Each ramp is accompanied by a declaration of use to ensure clarity around its informal status and to address safety concerns. The ramps are flexible and have now been used in several other European countries.

The initiative also addresses less visible challenges such as high counters and unfriendly layouts in shops and medical practices. Ebel and her team encourage businesses to speak directly to people with disabilities about what would make them feel more welcome. Volunteer Gabriele Schaar von Romer explains that improving accessibility benefits the wider community and is a key step in creating vibrant and inclusive city centres for all.

Author: Carolina Ramos

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.