Latest audit from Chris Cammiss: Enhancing Inclusivity: The Essential Role of Disability Access Audits at Heptonstall Museum

Here is the latest access audit from Chris Cammiss, who demonstrated his usual intrepid and fearless spirit, overcoming numerous barriers at Heptonstall Museum!

Read about his experiences here:

Ensuring Accessibility: The Importance of Disability Access Audits

Disability access audits are essential in creating inclusive environments for everyone. Recently, I conducted a disability access audit during a visit to Heptonstall Museum, which highlighted both the challenges and the importance of such evaluations. Disability access audits identify obstacles and suggest improvements, ensuring that spaces are accessible to all, regardless of physical abilities.

The Journey to Heptonstall Museum

Navigating Heptonstall in a wheelchair is no small feat. The village’s steep, narrow streets and beloved cobbles present formidable obstacles. Accompanied by my trusty volunteer, Hakar, I embarked on this journey, knowing the challenges we might face. Disability access audits are crucial in these scenarios, helping to identify and mitigate such obstacles.

Upon arrival, I was directed to the museum’s location and parking area. However, seeing the steep path to the museum, Hakar scouted ahead to confirm its viability. He quickly returned with Tim, our contact, who guided us to a more suitable parking spot. Although the slope was challenging, the camber allowed me to “fall” into my wheelchair, demonstrating the importance of detailed accessibility planning in disability access audits.

The door to Heptonstall Museum with a large step in front.
The door to Heptonstall Museum with a large step in front.

Inside the Museum

The beautiful building housing Heptonstall Museum was accessed via a wet, flagged path. Here, Hakar’s strength was essential in navigating the impressive steps. This experience underscored the need for better accessibility solutions, a key focus of disability access audits. Once inside, the small venue was fascinating. The current exhibition, related to the filming of “The Gallows Pole,” was well-presented and accessible, featuring text, pictures, and artefacts that were easy to engage with.

Overcoming Barriers

Exiting the museum presented another challenge. My parking situation required Hakar’s assistance to push me back into the car, highlighting once again the physical barriers that need addressing through disability access audits. These audits can recommend practical solutions, such as better parking arrangements and easier access routes, making a significant difference for visitors with disabilities.

The Role of Disability Access Audits

Disability access audits play a vital role in identifying and resolving accessibility issues. They ensure that public spaces, like Heptonstall Museum, are welcoming and navigable for everyone. By highlighting obstacles and suggesting improvements, these audits contribute to a more inclusive society. Our experience at Heptonstall underscored the importance of these evaluations, revealing both the challenges and the successes in making spaces accessible.

In conclusion, disability access audits are crucial for creating inclusive environments. My visit to Heptonstall Museum, with the invaluable assistance of Hakar, demonstrated the real-world impact of these audits. As the weather improves, I’m looking forward to more adventures and continuing to advocate for better accessibility. Disability access audits ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy and participate fully in all aspects of life.

Back with more adventures soon,

Chris

Here’s a link to the Heptonstall Museum Website:- Click Here

To join Accessible Calderdale Click Here