Author: Neale Myers

Is your organisation in Calderdale looking to improve accessibility?

Visits Unlimited is offering free access audits to all eligible voluntary sector and community groups in Calderdale who have submitted an Expression of Interest form.

With years of experience training staff across various sectors, including tourism, business, and statutory services, our trainers are experts in creating inclusive environments. As part of the England Inclusive Tourism Action Group alongside Visit England, we are committed to improving accessibility for everyone.

What does this mean for you?

Our free access audits will provide your organisation with valuable insights into how accessible your services and facilities are to people with disabilities. We will work closely with you to identify areas for improvement and provide practical recommendations.

By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors and service users.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make a difference!

Recent feedback from our local training session

“ Thanks Chris and Katie for sharing your personal experiences to help us understand more about disability”

“I can use what I learned in everyday aspects of my life – professional/parish and volunteering”

“Very informing and eye-opening.  Thank you”.

Free Access Audits

• Would you like to develop your community group venue to become more accessible to people with disabilities?
• Are you considering re-locating your group and would like to ensure the proposed venue is inclusive and accessible?

Chris Cammiss is our skilled and professional auditor, trainer and disability advisor. he works is an auditor for a variety of venues including large tourist attractions, stately homes and castles, health settings, large businesses, transport, shops, hotels, outdoor venues and small organisations.

Chris provides a full access survey with a report a recommendation. Groups will have the opportunity to apply for funding through the Community Foundation for Calderdale to support recommendations for access and inclusion.

Feedback from recent audits
“So helpful”, “fabulous audit”, “looking promising with the funding from Community Foundation”, “invaluable”.

Contact Lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk 07596 707795

The Accessible Calderdale Access Audit Expresssion Of Interest Form is downloadable by clicking this link.

Email the completed form to lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk or post to: 15 Savile Park Gardens, HALIFAX, Yorkshire, HX1 2XL.

Longleat, where change is welcomed.

Access Audits, adventures… I went back down to Longleat on Tuesday to see Simon Townsend and his team from Cheddar Gorge and Longleat to discuss my two earlier Access Reports.

After enjoying a lovely journey there I was quickly deflated when I found the main Entrance completely blocked off! Proper electronic barriers, clear signage, the venue was clearly closed! Luckily I could see a distant Land Rover parked amongst the trees so I knew some sort of access must be possible but how, where? Being the consummate professional I am I had arrived without Simon’s number or indeed the contact details of anyone relevant to the venue!

Eventually I started to think more clearly, looked around more carefully and found “the button”. Quick press and I was through to Security and the barriers soon began to move aside.

After parking, one more random question and I was directed to the Estate Office. Jump forward a few minutes and now I’m back in the real business world. Simon collected his team, a suitable room was located, coffee was brewed and off we went.

What a positive meeting! Everyone was on the same page and very keen to progress. Lovely to encounter so much enthusiasm. It’s always a good sign when everyone is discussing issues without mentioning costs. Of course costs will be relevant later but it never blocked or influenced a discussion here.

I was particularly relieved to find how much common ground there was. I had indicated several areas in my reports where I wanted to see immediate improvement. You never know how well

Access Audits: A Positive Experience at Longleat

Introduction

In this post, we’ll delve into the world of access audits and share a recent positive experience at Longleat. As a venue committed to inclusivity, Longleat has taken significant strides to ensure that everyone can enjoy their visit, regardless of their abilities.

The Audit Process: A Collaborative Approach

Our recent access audit at Longleat was a collaborative effort between our team and the dedicated staff at the venue. Together, we conducted a thorough evaluation of the site’s accessibility features, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Positive Outcomes and Future Plans

We were delighted to discover several positive aspects of Longleat’s accessibility efforts. The venue has implemented a range of measures to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including:

• Clear signage and wayfinding: Easy-to-read signage and clear pathways help visitors navigate the site.
• Accessible facilities: Longleat offers accessible restrooms and parking spaces.
• Staff training: The staff at Longleat are well-trained in providing assistance to visitors with disabilities.

Moreover, the venue is committed to ongoing improvement and has plans to implement additional accessibility measures in the future.

Conclusion

Our experience at Longleat underscores the importance of access audits in creating inclusive spaces. By conducting regular audits and implementing necessary improvements, venues can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy their visit. We commend Longleat for their dedication to accessibility and look forward to seeing their continued progress.

A great day and a very positive conclusion to my work which had started back in November. Katie’s training is yet to come and then we’ll know more about how to carry this great collaboration forward. Watch this space!

Chris

Talk To Us About Access Audits