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.

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

Here we have the latest audit from Chris Cammiss who was his usual intrepid self, fearless and once again overcame lots of barriers. Together with a bit of support from Katie (Accessible Calderdale) and her husband Andy, Chris was able to get into the building and lo and behold he loved every minute of it.

Read about his experiences here:

Unique Community Hub is a beacon of hope and opportunity in Halifax’s Park Ward. Their tireless dedication to empowering young people is truly inspiring, and a recent audit visit by Chris Cammiss further solidified their remarkable achievements.

Chris, known for his intrepid spirit and unwavering commitment to accessibility, encountered some initial challenges. A narrow, cobbled road with limited parking and confusing Sat Nav directions presented obstacles. Signage for the building was also lacking, reflecting its history of various uses. Finally, a portable ramp provided the necessary access.

A Transformation from the Outside In

However, stepping inside Unique Hub was a revelation. The stark contrast between the exterior and the interior was nothing short of astonishing. Gone were the initial challenges, replaced by a warm, inviting space overflowing with positive energy.

A full range of indoor sports facilities, a coffee bar, a gym, a big screen, and access to a vast outdoor space offered a plethora of activities for young people. This vibrant environment fosters a sense of belonging and provides a safe haven for them to explore their talents and interests.

Unique Hub: Empowering Young People and Beyond

Unique Hub’s impact extends far beyond the walls of their facility. Their dedication to youth development in Calderdale is commendable, reaching a significant number of young people and offering a diverse range of activities.

But their work doesn’t stop there. Their inspiring efforts to help others, both locally and abroad, demonstrate their unwavering commitment to creating a positive global impact.

Chris’s audit visit was a resounding success, highlighting the incredible work happening at Unique Community Hub. His enthusiasm for their mission is palpable, and his closing remarks, “What a great day! Looking forward to the next audit so watch this space,” leave us eagerly anticipating their continued progress.

Looking To Get Involved?

Unique Hub thrives on community support. If you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or simply learning more about their incredible initiatives, we encourage you to reach out to them directly. Their website https://teamunique.co.uk/ provides further details about their programs and ways to contribute.

By supporting Unique Hub, you’re investing in the future of Halifax’s youth and fostering a more vibrant, inclusive community.

To join Accessible Calderdale Click Here

How Access Audits Help Make Communities Inclusive

Despite the rain making everything a bit muddy, it’s been a busy year for access audits so far! This has included some fantastic projects, like a local rugby club planning a Changing Places toilet – a big step towards inclusivity.

Making Sporting Sites Accessible for All

The Halifax Rugby Union Club is taking a brilliant initiative by incorporating a Changing Places toilet into their facilities. The venue actively caters to everyone in the community, regardless of their needs, demonstrating a strong vision of inclusivity.

Community Foundation for Calderdale Makes Audits Possible

A big thank you to the Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) for their ongoing support. CFFC funding enabled us to tackle the long waiting list for access audits. People requesting access audits have shown incredible enthusiasm and patience, which is truly overwhelming.

Building Relationships Through Audits

It’s always rewarding to connect with passionate people within the community. Michael from Brighouse Methodist Church exemplifies this perfectly. His regular and polite inquiries, including a full video tour of their facilities, landed them a well-deserved spot on our audit schedule.

Highlighting Accessibility Issues: A Town Hall Tale

A recent access meeting, relocated to Halifax Town Hall at the last minute, turned into an accessibility nightmare. Cobblestones, parking barriers, and a lack of dropped kerbs made navigating the building a challenge. Reaching the meeting room required multiple platform lifts, clearly demonstrating the need for an access audit.

Looking Forward to a Brighter and More Inclusive Future

We’ll keep you updated on our progress as the weather improves and the Year of Culture gets underway. In the meantime, if you’re interested in learning more about how Access Audits can improve accessibility in your community, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To join Accessible Calderdale Click Here

Press Release from Calderdale Council: New Changing Places facility at Ogden Water

A new Changing Places toilet is now open at Ogden Water Country Park, improving facilities and accessibility at the Calderdale beauty spot, particularly for those with severe disabilities or complex needs.

As part of the Changing Places programme, a partnership between the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and  Muscular Dystrophy UK. Calderdale has been awarded funding for three Changing Places toilets in the borough.

The first of these was installed at Todmorden Learning Centre and Community Hub last year and work to install a Changing Places toilet is also underway at the Fire & Water building in Sowerby Bridge.

These fully accessible toilets are for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets. They include specialist equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches, and space for carers.

The installation of the Changing Places toilet at Ogden Water complements the wheelchair-friendly routes around the reservoir, making the site a more inclusive place to visit. It also provides the opportunity for people with a range of disabilities to enjoy the countryside and the associated mental and physical health benefits.

The Changing Places facility is currently open from 8am until 4pm, as part of the winter opening hours which will run until late March. The opening times will increase to 6am until 6pm from late March until late October.

Creating a Welcoming Space for Every Visitor at Ogden Water

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Cllr Tim Swift, said:

“Ogden Water Country Park is a popular place for walks, picnics and family outings. We want to make the site as inclusive as possible. To enable more people to enjoy the beautiful countryside and experience the many accompanying benefits.

“There are already wheelchair-friendly routes around the reservoir, but the opening of a new Changing Places toilet will support wider access for those who cannot use standard accessible toilets, ensuring that they, and their family, friends and carers, can enjoy their visit with the peace of mind that there are facilities which meet their needs.”

Funding for the Ogden Water facility has been provided by DLUHC in partnership with Muscular Dystrophy UK. With further support from Calderdale Council and the Friends of Calderdale’s Countryside. Thanks is also given to the Accessible Calderdale Disability Access

Forum for their support and guidance.

For more information about Changing Places toilets and to search for existing facilities across the country,  Click Here

To join Accessible Calderdale Click Here

Imagine exploring a stunning park, only to encounter steep steps and uneven paths that block your way. This was the reality facing accessibility audits of outdoor spaces until our incredible volunteer, Hakar, joined the team. Combining their boundless energy with tech know-how, we formed a dream duo, conquering green havens like Brackenbed Park and Branston Park twice as efficiently.

But collaboration isn’t just about speed. It’s about harnessing diverse perspectives to craft truly inclusive spaces. Hakar’s agility allowed them to dive into every corner, capturing details invisible from a wheelchair. This, paired with my experience, ensures accessibility isn’t an afterthought, but an integral part of the design.

However, not every audit is smooth sailing. My visit to Grayston Unity highlighted the importance of clear communication. Despite their dedication to inclusion, a missed appointment arose due to miscommunication. Thankfully, their commitment shone through, and the audit revealed a space brimming with potential. Even the newly treated floor, posing a temporary obstacle, couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm for creating an accessible haven for all.

So, what are the key takeaways?

1. Accessibility is for everyone: It’s not just about wheelchairs. Uneven surfaces, poor acoustics, and unclear signage can hinder anyone’s experience.
2. Collaboration is key: Combining different skillsets and perspectives leads to more comprehensive and inclusive solutions.
3. Communication is crucial: Clear and timely communication prevents missed opportunities and ensures everyone is on the same page.
4. Challenges are temporary: Obstacles like wet floors shouldn’t deter us from striving for an accessible future.

By embracing collaboration, clear communication, and a commitment to inclusivity, we can unlock the true potential of every space, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty and opportunity it offers. Remember, accessibility isn’t just good for some, it’s good for all. Let’s keep working together to make that a reality.

Links to:-

Brackenbed Park
Grayston Unity

To join Accessible Calderdale Click Here

Disability Access Forum launches revised Hebden Bridge Access Map

Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum (HBDAF) has just published its updated Step-Free Access Map and Guide to Hebden Bridge town centre. The map was first published in 2018 but is now fully updated to December 2023.

​Previous editions have been useful for ​both residents and ​visitors to the town​. Websites for local events, such as the Folk Roots Festival​​​,​ have included links to the map​.​

The new map is available to view and print at this link

http://hebdenroydtowncouncil.gov.uk/disability-forum/access-guide-map.pdf

Paper copies of the map and guide are available from the desk in the Town Hall foyer.

There are some changes to the Step Free Guide, as shops, cafes and other businesses have changed hands since our last update in 2022.

The access map and guide is one of many things which HBDAF does to improve access to life for disabled people in the Hebden Bridge area. Also we consult with businesses, charities and public bodies to improve access to existing and planned places, events and services.

“We need new members to help us with our work, and to share their access suggestions, concerns and lived experiences. We welcome all Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent people and those with long-term health conditions. 

Especially welcome are younger disabled people to join us so we can better represent our diverse local disabled community.

We also welcome non-disabled people as Associates to help us with our work.”

HBDAF meetings are held on the third Monday of the month at 2.30 p.m. in Hebden Bridge Town Hall and via Zoom. Contact sechbdisabilityaccess@gmail.com for details, or phone 01422 844914. 

HBDAF is a working group of Hebden Royd Town Council