A double amputee has criticised a dental surgery after an access route for disabled people was taken away.

Abbey Dental in St James Street, Walthamstow, decided last week to remove a ramp which has been used as a point of access for disabled people for many years.

Raymond Longville, 55, has used the surgery for over 12 years and says he has been left upset and in shock at what he calls the "complete exclusion" of some disabled people.

“I was at the same dental surgery when I was able bodied," Mr Longville, of Park Road, Leyton, added.

"I use the access at the side - I can get up the ramp” 

“On Monday the phone rang and it was the surgery telling me they had made the decision about four or five days ago to take the ramp away.

“I had an appointment the following day.

"I was completely taken aback.

“I was surprised, upset and really annoyed.

“They said I would have to find an alternative surgery if I couldn’t get in without the ramp – how am I supposed to do that?

“After I told them I needed help, they got me an appointment for next week at Bakers Arms. 

“So that’s it, I’m out because I can’t get in and they aren’t going to replace the ramp.”

The practice manager, who asked not to be named, said it is not currently possible to provide disabled access as they were told by the council over a decade ago the gradient at the front is too steep and the side entrance is private land.

She added: “It is a health and safety issue which the management decided upon.

“We have not at any point said anyone has to leave the surgery but the entrance was a makeshift one. What was acceptable under health and safety ten, seven, even three years ago is not now.

“The practice and facilities are still accessible for disabled people with an escort to help them up the steps.”

Mr Longville said: “I would not in a million years put that kind of pressure on one of my friends. I am a double amputee they would have to carry me up all the stairs.

“If they slip then we are both injured. I am standing up for all disabled people here.

“I have to find a new surgery because I can’t get in on my own – and they say that isn’t discrimination. I completely disagree.”