A TRAILBLAZING video directory has been launched in Keighley to showcase services and activities for disabled people.

Those with learning disabilities can watch short films about each organisation instead of struggling to read through a booklet or listing.

Public agencies, community groups and sports clubs are invited to make short films about their own activities for the database.

Several organisations piloting the scheme have filmed their own disabled members or service users talking about what goes on.

The Video Service Directory has been created by People First Keighley and Craven, a support, campaign and social group run by adults with learning disabilities, in partnership with the Workers Educational Association (WEA).

WEA workers Martino Carazza and Mark Goodwin run the project as part of the Locate initiative to ‘empower’ local communities, funded by the European Social Fund.

People First decided to build on its long-established work helping improve disabled people’s access to services and activities other people take advantage.

Alex Miller, a member of People First, created a website to host the directory and will be heavily involved in maintaining it.

Mr Carazza said Locate taught media skills to local communities so they had the tools for marketing, business planning and entrepreneurship.

He added: “People First members realised the services on offer to them were not accessible.

“Young people who were leaving mainstream school wanted to do something different, but the information was in book format.

“Some of the words were too difficult. There wasn’t even a good picture guide or easy-read version.

“They came up with the idea of using videos. They make it easier for parents, carers and social workers to direct people with learning disabilities.

“People First is leading the way on this. We’re not aware of a video directory anywhere else in the country.”

Several videos have already been uploaded, but People First wants to hear from other organisations willing to post clips about their services and activities.

Organisations unable to film their own videos could receive help from the Big Soup Theatre Company, which is based next to People First at Springfield Mills in Oakworth Road.

Mr Carazza said: “The directory is in its very early stages and I think it will grow. A steering group will be formed to manage it.”

Visit youcandobradfordandkeighley.blogspot.co.uk to see some of the films and call 01535 607222 to get involved.