DISABLED shoppers have encountered a catalogue of problems at Bournemouth's post office since it moved to the first floor of WHSmith, a report has revealed.

The new location has been branded confusing and daunting, with staff criticised for having little awareness of how best to assist disabled visitors.

One assessor's verdict was simply: "They could not have picked a worse location if they tried."

The mystery shopping visit was carried out by five assessors from DOTS Disability Community Interest Company, who all have different impairments.

They inspected every aspect of the post office operation and concluded that it was difficult for disabled people to park near the shop, navigate the shop, operate the lift and conduct their business.

They also carried out a survey of 40 DOTS Disability members, in which every single person said the location of the new post office made it less accessible to disabled people and they were now less likely to use the post office.

Jonathan Waddington-Jones, director of DOTS Disability, said in one instance, a mobility scooter user was forced to struggle down the stairs on crutches because the lift was too small. There were so many small things that WHSmith could have done that would have made a huge difference to disabled people," he said.

"This year is the 13th year since disabled people first had equal access and yet here they are reducing access to a vital service.

"What message does that send out to other people?"

And Lisa Brooks, who is visually impaired, said: "I only went in to do the audit and I would not go in again.

"It was just too confusing for me."

A meeting between councillors and a representative of WHSmith will take place later this month and DOTS Disability members are hoping to be able to put their points to him in person.

A spokesperson for WHSmith said the business took the needs of disabled customers "extremely seriously".

"We are committed to ensuring that every customer has the best possible access to the post office in Bournemouth and are keen to work with local groups to help address any concerns they may have.

"The feedback we have received has been positive with customers highlighting the benefits of improved customer service, shorter queues and longer opening hours.

"Mark Sabin, WHSmith's director of group risk, will shortly be meeting councillors in Bournemouth."