Understanding FND and What Really Disables Me

I am a single, blue jellybean in the dark, and I am on fire.

This is not a metaphor for angst. Instead, it is the closest I can get to explaining my disability, FND (Functional Neurological Disorder). There is a constant internal fire — the burning nerve pain in my legs, the deep, smouldering heat of total burnout. Moreover, as I burn, I shoot off unpredictable fireworks — the tics, the brain fog, the limbs that collapse, the chaotic nerve signals.

This is my disability. It is my reality.

However, the most important thing to understand is this: my disability is not the only thing that disables me.

I am also disabled by a society built by and for people who are not on fire. I face barriers, rules, and attitudes that lock me out of the world. Therefore, my reality is the exclusion I experience every single day.

What Really Disables People with FND

My reality is not only a medical condition; it is a collection of external barriers. The most painful of these barriers comes from people’s attitudes.

For example, when I say, “I am burning,” and someone replies, “You don’t look like you’re on fire. It must be in your head,” that disbelief becomes a wall. It echoes a long, dark history that labelled conditions like FND as “hysteria.”

Fortunately, modern neurological research has proven that FND is a genuine and measurable disorder of brain function. Using tools such as fMRI, scientists now show what patients have said all along — this is not imagined. Studies reveal real differences in how the brain works. The wiring malfunctions, and the signals sent to the body become scrambled. As a result, people experience real pain, weakness, and tremors.

Therefore, FND is not “hysteria.” It is a complex neurological condition, just as real as Parkinson’s or MS.

Don’t Fix Me — Fix the Barriers

The medical model looks at my fiery jellybean and wants to fix me. However, the social model recognises that my disability is simply part of human diversity. The real problem lies in the world that excludes me.

My FND is a fact of my body. Yet my suffering also reflects the barriers that society has created. Unlike my disability, those barriers can be torn down.

So, believe us. Offer flexibility. Add a ramp. Put in a bench. Challenge assumptions. As a result, you become the person who removes a barrier — and helps dismantle the medical model of disability.

Contact us  https://visitsunlimited.org.uk/contact-us

Find out more about FND. https://fndhope.org/about-fnd-hope/fnd-hope-uk/

Holiday Reflections on Travel and Accessibility

Final Holiday Blog for the Moment

Well, our biennial invasion of southern France took place again this summer, bringing with it old and new accessibility issues which we relentlessly overcame. It is strange that after more than twenty years of holidays in the same region we still come across new and unforeseen obstacles. The trick is that we know we have the confidence and the experience to solve them all.

So, we set off from Manchester in late July for five weeks in the very South of France. Various parts of our extended family joined us at different times, nineteen people in all. Thankfully not all at the same time.

Ferry Travel and the First Stages of the Journey

Having driven to London to reach the Tunnel hundreds of times, we opted for ferry travel instead. Outward was Brittany Ferries Plymouth to Roscoff. Overnight, but disembarking at breakfast time gave us a full day to travel as far as we wanted. It also saved paying for a hotel in Dover. The crew were superb. They guided us on board, parked us next to a lift, and our cabin was wonderful. Spacious, with tea, coffee, TV, and wifi. Then all the facilities of a cruise ship: casino, duty free, live entertainment, and a superb restaurant. I have to admit, I like ships. All level or with lots of lifts.

The next morning brought breakfast on the harbour, our first market of the trip, and then the road south. We opted for just one night en route and booked a quirky hotel in an old historic town. Our room was wheelchair accessible, a full apartment no less. Dinner turned out to be part of their special foodie week, with guest chef, outdoor dining, and live music.

Arrival and Accessibility Challenges

When we reached the holiday home, which was ours for the next month, everything was as described. Except for one important thing. The steep slope up to the front door.

My partner carries out months of diligent research before travel, discounting many properties. We had studied countless photos and asked very specific questions. We were even sent drone footage and had a Zoom tour where the owners showed us every part of the house. Yet in all that preparation none of us noticed the slope.

Fortunately, our first family visitors arrived the next day. I always had at least one adult relative to push me up. If we travel alone, we do not take chances like that.

I also took a collapsible toilet frame, which made toilet and shower use easy. That is the benefit of years of practical experience.

Family, Food and Fun

The holiday was amazing in every way. It has changed over the years. In the beginning we were joined by a couple with a new baby or another son with toddlers. Now toddlers have become teenagers and one child has become three. But it is still all fun.

The Return Journey and a Surprise Detour

The return was another one-stop trip, this time just south of Paris before heading to Rotterdam for North Sea Ferries. Here we had our only major glitch. A serious motorway blockage in Antwerp cost us two hours and we missed the ferry by five minutes.

Staff were amazing. They changed our tickets to the next day and even found a hotel for us. A blessing in disguise. We enjoyed a spare day in a Dutch village with canals, good food, and a little alcohol.

Finally, on the ferry, our accessible cabin was the best ever. Excellent size and amenities, great crew, fab restaurant, and a cocktail waiter who knew his craft. The live show was also the best. A great end to a great holiday. The short run home from Hull to Manchester was easy and then it was time to relax.

Just need to regain some energy to do it all again in 2027.

See you soon!

Chris

Contact us to talk all things accessibility https://visitsunlimited.org.uk/contact-us/

Read more about accessible travel in the UK https://www.tourismforall.co.uk/

Accessibility Audits and Concert Adventures: From Knebworth to Hyde Park

As September begins and uninterrupted sunshine begins to fade, perhaps it’s time to revisit some of the events that made this such a special summer. Along the way, it’s also a chance to reflect on how Accessibility Audits shape our experiences at major venues.

Personally, as the official ageing hippy, I like to check out a few major concerts every summer. I like music, I like high volume and I like crowds, so festivals are a big attraction for me.

I think my first major concert was Knebworth in 1975? (Yes, I think 1975). Anyway it was Pink Floyd and many others – Steve Miller, Captain Beefheart – Wow! Tickets at 50 pence on the gate or from a nearby caravan office the night before, then hours of brilliant music enhanced by lots of illegal substances! Official dive bombing by real Spitfires, live music till 2.00am at least! Those were the days!

I’ve been to Knebworth since, (Liam Gallagher), but this year the main event for me was Hyde Park. I like Hyde Park because it’s so well organised for access. Every year they put on a string of weekend concerts across the summer, and some are really special.

In the past I’ve seen Pearl Jam here and the Pixies, but this year it was the mighty Neil Young and the magnificent Van Morrison on the same bill that took my attention!

What does Hyde Park get right?

We approached by car (parking pre-booked), were met by a steward and told exactly where we should find the car park. Another steward then told us exactly where to park, where to wait and where toilets were located if required.

We caught one of a dedicated fleet of accessible taxis which took us straight to the accessible venue entrance. Show tickets, follow arrows and then find the accessible complex. Here are every type of accessible toilet including Changing Places, secure ground level viewing area and a ramp up to the (huge) raised viewing platform.

We had been allocated wrist bands – disabled person plus companion – so immediate entry. On the platform were pairs of loose seats, plenty of space, so room for everyone, front, back wherever.

Unlike some venues the platform has a superb view of the main stage. Clear, uninterrupted view – including of the BSL interpreters!

Unbelievable.

A day of music and access

So, a full day of the best rock music available. Van the Man unrecognisable in a smart Panama hat with a pale blue shirt, unlike his usual outfit copying a down at heel bus conductor. Cat Stevens playing all of his old hits and more. Finally Neil Young in a very angry mood – upset with Trump, USA and everyone who wasn’t alive to the crises we all face around the world. Absolutely magnificent!

Accessibility Audits highlight changes over time

Interesting difference between now and my first Knebworth – as I said earlier, Pink Floyd were playing full volume well into the early hours with more recorded music to entertain us afterwards as we slowly left for the car parks.

Now, Neil Young knew he had to finish promptly at 10.30pm. As he crashed through his encore numbers, and was blasting through the very last chords, the power was turned off, seconds before he reached the end!

One final access point

Stewards had been superb with us all day – sorting chairs, helping people to the toilets, bringing drinks etc. Their niceness was exploited near the end.

I’d noticed a couple of women in front of me earlier. One, poor on her feet, the other presumably the companion. Fine. Later, two other women arrived who knew these two. But these arrivals had no physical impairments – they walked, stood, even danced. I was suspicious, but they weren’t in my way.

Then, towards the end, as Neil Young got started, two blokes arrived who seemed to be able-bodied, wearing companion wrist bands, who obviously knew these women. Hmm!

Then one of them made a fatal mistake – he asked a steward to put up a chair right in front of me! Too much! I threw the chair away and told the man to get out of my way. He tried finger pointing and shouting, but I firmly pushed that aside and told him in no uncertain terms I thought they were frauds exploiting the goodwill of the staff. (Bad language might have been used!)

He went away, but came back later to apologise! Obviously that didn’t work, just made me even more angry.

Just goes to show, some people are always trying to take advantage. For me though it was all a plus – those who know me best will have often heard me say “A day without an argument is a day wasted!”

See you next time.

Chris Cammiss

BST Hyde Park provides accessible facilities including viewing platforms, BSL interpretation, assistance tickets and dedicated routes for guests with disabilities, long term health conditions or neurodivergence. For more information click the link https://www.bst-hydepark.com/info-details/accessibility/

From Hebden Bridge to Dewsbury: The Journey of Accessibility Audits

Well, I started auditing in Hebden Bridge, graduated to Halifax, and eventually to all of Calderdale. Over the years, I have conducted hundreds of Accessibility Audits. These have taken me to churches, parks, cafes, train stations, clinics, and pubs. Each audit has given me the chance to meet people in many different roles, including those on local council bodies.

This work has brought me to the attention of Calderdale Council for larger projects. I am delighted about that. This week marked an exciting new development. Beyond Hebden, beyond Elland, beyond Calderdale itself. I have been asked to visit Dewsbury.

This opportunity is thanks to Accessible Calderdale and their persistence. They have worked closely with West Yorkshire Combined Authority. Together with ACDAF, we have fed into local transport plans and audited bus and train stations across the region.

Accessibility Audits at Dewsbury Bus Station

Bright and early this week, I found myself outside Dewsbury Bus Station. It is currently a building site with a skeleton bus service. I had never been before, so I stopped to speak to Security. At first, I was not on their list. Once sorted, the support was incredible. Security guided me to excellent parking, helped me out with my chair, carried my bag, and stayed with me until I was with my contact.

The visit began with testing bus stands and bus ramps. But this was not just about measuring steps. We had our own buses to visit every stand. I could board, disembark, and give feedback at each point. Some buses were still in service, so it felt like a giant game of dodgems. Our bus nipped in and out as stands became free. All the staff knew what was happening, but I imagine the public must have been curious.

It felt like being kids again. Me, the engineers, the project manager, and others hopping on and off buses in circles. Great fun.

Improving Facilities Through Accessibility Audits

Next came a survey of the new toilets. They were already finished to a high standard. With a few suggested improvements, they will be cutting edge. Most impressively, the facilities include a Changing Places toilet. I explained that this would enhance Dewsbury’s tourist appeal. The suggestion went down very well.

Finally, we checked temporary pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, and tactile paving. That wrapped up my first visit to Kirklees. A brilliant start to what I hope will be the first of many official projects.

Thanks, Dewsbury, for a great visit.

For more on inclusive travel standards, you can read Changing Places Information.

Contact us to arrange your Accessibilty Audit Here

Working Together for Inclusive Communities with North Halifax Partnership

We are really pleased to be working collaboratively with the North Halifax Partnership.

From Meet & Eat lunches to new Accessibility Audits, North Halifax Partnership has worked closely with Visits Unlimited to raise awareness of disability in North Halifax. These initiatives provide valuable opportunities for disabled people to share what matters to them and play an active role in shaping their local community.

This collaboration highlights the importance of listening to disabled voices and ensuring that inclusion is not just an aim, but a practical reality. By offering spaces where people can speak openly, the partnership creates pathways for positive change and stronger community connections.

Building Inclusive Communities Together

At Visits Unlimited, we are proud to work towards being more inclusive in everything we do. This means listening to everyone, recognising their experiences, and bringing them with us on a journey of growth, empowerment, and advocacy.

Following the Reimagining Communities 2.0 community engagement programme North Halifax Partnership led, this enabled a series of co-developed local solutions to local priorities, working closely with Visits Unlimited and the Accessible Calderdale Project using funding made available as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme in Calderdale. The partnership has ensured that accessibility is woven into the planning and delivery of local projects and involving people in shaping investment. This approach has not only strengthened community ties but also supported fairer opportunities for everyone to have their say, leading to long lasting changes in communities.

Celebrating Progress and Sharing Stories

The ongoing work demonstrates how collaboration can drive genuine change. By working with North Halifax Partnership, Visits Unlimited continues to challenge barriers and champion disability awareness at a local level.

You can see all the inspiring Reimagining Communities videos on the North Halifax Partnership YouTube channel. These stories capture the spirit of community, inclusion, and the positive difference that working together can make.

Conclusion: Inclusive Communities in Action

The partnership with North Halifax Partnership is a step forward in reimagining what inclusive communities can look like. By valuing disabled voices, creating accessible opportunities, and shaping programmes like UKSPF with equity in mind, we are moving towards a stronger, more connected Calderdale for everyone.

Learn more about our Events here.

Contact us to talk about accessibilty audits.

Accessible Calderdale: Finding Acceptance, Community and a Place to Belong

A Life Spent Hiding

Finding Accessible Calderdale really did change my life.

For much of my life, I felt like I had to hide who I really was. From school to the workplace, being myself always seemed to come with a price. At school, I spent more time in isolation or detention than I did in actual lessons. And in the world of work, I’d often hear, “We’re disability-friendly”—but the reality rarely matched the promise.

Even at home, things weren’t always straightforward. If I’m honest, only about one percent of my family truly accepted me for who I am. That small, treasured group included my dad—and a few others whose quiet support meant the world.

Discovering Accessible Calderdale

For years, I searched for somewhere I could just be me. Somewhere I didn’t have to mask or mould myself to fit in.

And then I found Accessible Calderdale.

And everything changed.

Finding Belonging and Confidence

I found my people. People who didn’t just accept difference—they welcomed it. People who saw me, understood me, and helped me find the confidence to embrace my authentic self.

Accessible Calderdale isn’t just a team. It’s not just a project.

It’s a family.

A Truly Inclusive Community

A family that offers warmth, understanding, and a sense of belonging that’s all too rare these days.

In today’s society, finding a space where you’re truly accepted for who you are is nothing short of extraordinary. But that’s exactly what Accessible Calderdale provides. And what they’ve given me isn’t just personal—it’s transformative.

Creating a Better Future Through Inclusion

Because when we build communities rooted in empathy and inclusion, we don’t just improve lives—we shape a better future for everyone.

Thank you my Lovelys

Building a More Inclusive Accessible Calderdale Together

My name is Aisha Mir, and accessible Calderdale ’s journey is deeply personal to me. I’m a single disabled mum of three. After an accident in 2011, I slowly lost my mobility. I was bedridden for over a year and a half before learning to live life in a wheelchair. It keeps me independent, lets me be the mum I want to be, and helps me stay connected to my community.

I had to figure things out the hard way, often without much support. There were dark times, but I decided giving up wasn’t an option. Not for me, and not for my children. Instead, I chose to be a role model and help other disabled people see what’s possible. That’s why I joined the Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum (ACDAF). We are a group of volunteers with lived experience of disability, working to make accessible Calderdale a reality for everyone.

What ACDAF Does

At ACDAF, we meet monthly to share ideas, advocate for change, and create a welcoming space. We advise Calderdale Council on accessibility improvements at leisure centres, the train station, town centre plans, the Victoria Theatre, and the A629. All of this is part of our vision for a truly accessible Calderdale.

We also share our work with the public through our Facebook group, Accessible Calderdale. We’re proud to be part of Visits Unlimited, a national organisation that provides training and access audits across the UK.

Through our Meet and Eat sessions, we bring disabled people, carers, and care agencies together in accessible venues around Calderdale. We enjoy lunch, share experiences, meet professionals, and have some fun. These sessions are a lifeline — a space to feel included, heard, and supported.

New Initiatives Making a Difference

Over the last year, ACDAF has launched some exciting new projects to help build accessible Calderdale:

• Cup of Culture — Part of the Year of Culture, running sessions with commissioned organisations. These help them see arts and culture through a disability lens and become more inclusive.

• Direct Payment Support Group — Meeting monthly, online or in person. We run workshops on employment, recruitment, assessments, and transition.

• SEND Young People Engagement — Our auditor Chris, who is disabled, works with Katie to involve SEND young people in audits and training. This gives them a voice and valuable experience.

• Transport Workshops — Later this year, in partnership with Healthy Minds and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’ll run sessions on transport accessibility. This is one of the biggest challenges our community faces.

How You Can Help

Building accessible Calderdale is not something we can do alone. We’d love to hear your ideas on how individuals, businesses, and organisations can help.

What small changes can you make? What barriers have you noticed? Please take a moment to reflect and share your thoughts. Even small actions can help shape a more accessible future for everyone.

Why This Matters

We still have a long way to go. We know change doesn’t happen overnight. But every step we take together makes a difference. It helps the next generation and everyone living, working, and visiting Calderdale today.

We all deserve dignity, independence, and equal opportunities. Together, we can make accessible Calderdale happen.

Let’s keep working to make Calderdale accessible for all.

If you’d like to learn more, visit our website Here.

How My Journey Began

Accessible Calderdale means everything to me. My name is Aisha Mir. I am a single disabled mum of 3 children, 1 girl and 2 boys. Although I was not born disabled, in 2011 I had an accident and after that I slowly started to lose my mobility and was bedridden for a year and a half. The wheelchair became my life and gets me out and about, keeps me independent and helps me be a mother to my kids.

I’ve had to learn the hard way all by myself, with lack of support from anyone. My whole life had turned upside down, and I ended up in a bad way physically, mentally and emotionally. Then one day I just thought to myself what kind of role model would I be to my children? Then I thought I will not give up! Instead, I wanted to help other disabled people and show them what is possible and how they can get out and about.

Volunteering to Improve Accessibility in Calderdale

I then joined Wheelchair Enabling Society and started doing voluntary work with them to make a change in Calderdale, which I did for a few years. Soon after I finished, I set up a small organisation called WAY (Wheelchair Accessible Yorkshire) with a friend called Ali. The idea was that we would go out and about to different places across West Yorkshire with our cameras to look at the accessibility. The reason behind establishing WAY was because of my own experiences of not being able to rely on Google Search to find places to go. Google would say some places are accessible but when I did more research or went and visited, I found out that they were not always accessible and often there would be barriers in the way.

Sharing Accessibility Information Through Blogs

After we had been to different place we would go home and write blogs on the various places and venues so other wheelchair users could learn where to go and get active too. Our friend Graham set up the computer stuff for us until Covid hit, prices rose, which made it exceedingly difficult for me financially as a single disabled parent. I could not afford the petrol anymore and we sadly had to stop.

Why I Love Being Part of Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum

I am one of the volunteers in ACDAF. I am very passionate about what I do. This group has opened my eyes to so much knowledge and challenges from a different point of view on how we treat all different abilities, old and new. We are the people with real life experiences of pan-disabilities who meet at least once a month trying to look for ways of improving access and inclusion for everyone in Calderdale. We all get together to create a welcoming environment.

Working With Calderdale Council

We also work with the Calderdale council to help them save money and make various places accessible for all, like the leisure centre, train station, town centre plans, Victoria Theatre, and the A629. ACDAF, is a private membership group with a group of volunteers who have their own lived experience of disability. Our public Facebook group is called Accessible Calderdale, which is where all our hard work is shared and publicised.

Our Work With Visits Unlimited

I love being a member of ACDAF because we don’t just talk! We get things done. Our website is www.visitsunlimited.org.uk. Visits Unlimited CIC is a national organisation and provides training and access audits across the country. The aim is to be effective, whilst Broadening Horizons and Creating Memories.

Visits Unlimited hosts our Accessible Calderdale Project. We have done so much work together with making Calderdale more accessible and inclusive for all. Chris our auditor is disabled and has done reports on most of our local parks, museums, canals, transport, and countryside, as well as tourist venues, cafes and charitable organisations.

My Dream: Calderdale Fully Accessible for Everyone

We still have a long way to go, which I know it will not change overnight. If we all work together, at least the next generation will have more of an outdoor/indoor access in and around Calderdale than we do now. We are all human and deserve to live like everyone else. My dream is to make Calderdale more accessible for all.

Meet and Eat — Bringing People Together

We bring local disabled people together in different accessible venues and hold sessions that we have named Meet and Eat. These are open to all disabled people, anyone with a long-term health condition or who has mental health challenges. We invite care agencies and carers too. We get free lunch provided which is a bonus due to many disabled people living in poverty. At the sessions we do different activities and invite professionals and services to meet with us. We get to meet amazing new and familiar people whilst having a laugh too. We all stand for disability rights, accessibility, safety, community acceptance, independent living, quality of life, full and active participation in society, equal access to education and employment.

Let us all continue to work together to make Calderdale accessible for all!

Here is a link to a video showing Aisha creating a collage https://youtu.be/Bdz24vYGY-0?si=RKUgcMRvrqhGqpNz

How Our Access Audits for Calderdale and beyond make a difference…

Relaxing in the sun, Pisco Sour in hand (a Peruvian cocktail), I started reminiscing about the access audits work we’re trying to do here in Calderdale, and how there’s no chance of us doing all of it on our own – the key is kick-starting others to carry on the good work.

We can’t audit and advise on every shop, every museum, every church hall, visit every green space, or walk every walk, so it’s wonderful to hear from people who’ve taken on the mantle and have been activated by our visits and want to carry on the good work. They’ve secured the funding, convinced the Trustees and want to forge ahead.

Access Audits in Action: Cromwell Bottom Leads the Way

Places such as Cromwell Bottom show the ripple effect that access audits can have. Originally, they wanted me to look at some paths and a small viewing platform design. That led to a full audit. They seemed to be very enthusiastic after this and came back with more ideas. Several years down the line, they’ve built new accessible toilets, brand new and improved paths and seating, brought in an education centre, and even constructed a new, fully accessible, two-storey viewing structure. With plans for raised beds for disabled children to go on a bug hunt, and plans for an improved car park, there’s no stopping them!

Inclusive Playgrounds: Every Child Deserves to Play

Last year, we were asked to review the main parks in Calderdale with a focus on inclusive playground equipment. My Play Area reports, pushing for more accessible and inclusive play items, seem to have struck a chord. Every child has the right to play, not to just watch the others, and now I receive regular updates about new equipment and new paths – even new picnic tables going into Shibden and other parks.

Benches, Breaks and Everyday Accessibility

When you go for your walks around town and the countryside, you’ll often take a break sitting on a bench. Have you noticed whether there is space at the side of the bench for a wheelchair user to sit? I’ve asked for this on hundreds and hundreds of occasions, and it’s finally bearing fruit – the message is getting out there! If there isn’t a space, mention it to someone.

Recent Local Successes: Big Changes from Small Starts

Some of our recent successes include:

Brackenbed Park – staff are listening to my advice on their path development throughout the park.

Hebden Bridge Hostel – gave me chapter and verse about a new accessible room design.

Halifax Rugby Club – are now investing in a Changing Places toilet!

Beyond Calderdale: The Reach of Access Audits

And it works further afield. A few years ago, we were asked to audit parts of Raby Castle in Northumberland and train some staff. Lovely place. I remember advising them to change the loose gravel paths in the historical walled garden to something bonded, and to restructure the car park. Then the castle approach was over cobbles and old flags with very limited access once inside. I was told most of the ground floor was level once you’d climbed a few steps. I found a stepped back entrance leading to this level floor and advised building a wooden ramp. This could be removed for filming and photography and wouldn’t compromise their listed status. Eyes lit up! Since then, they’ve told me about the new, improved garden, then the new entrance, then the new car park, and now a completely new visitor centre, and a new website!

And It Keeps On Growing…

Bringing this to a close (I need a second Pisco Sour I think), I’ve literally just received an email from my rock guitarist friend at Brighouse Methodists. They’ve fully accepted my previous audit, and now have architects’ plans they would like me to look over.

From little acorns…

Enjoy the sun, but keep looking and commenting,
Speak soon,
Chris

Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum (ACDAF) earned a nomination in the Community Organisation Award for Disability at the National Diversity Awards 2025. This opportunity lets us recognise the grassroots efforts that make Calderdale more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

How ACDAF Strengthens Accessibility in Calderdale

“Central to the Accessible Calderdale Project is the Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum, commonly known as ACDAF, whose members are residents of Calderdale with lived experience and a wide range of disabilities.” Moreover, by involving people with firsthand insight, ACDAF shapes every recommendation around real needs and daily challenges.

ACDAF’s Impact on Accessibility and Inclusion in Calderdale

“ACDAF is a pan disability diverse group which includes people with protected characteristics, all with an equal voice.” First, the forum consults on new council-run venues; then it conducts detailed accessibility audits of parks and public transport. Because ACDAF drives co-production from the design stage—“key to the co-production and planning at the design stage of services, organisations, venues and green spaces”—Calderdale now features clearer bus signage and more inclusive play areas.

The Value of Lived Experience

“There is a real added value of working with people with lived experience and ACDAF members provide a pan-disability approach to improving accessibility in Calderdale.” For example, their input led to practical changes: new public toilets in Halifax now include adjustable sinks and alarms, and redesigned drop-kerb crossings accommodate wheelchair turning circles. Consequently, co-production moves beyond theory to transform everyday environments.

How You Can Help Celebrate ACDAF

Voting remains free and takes only moments. To support ACDAF at the National Diversity Awards 2025, visit:
https://www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/awards-2025/nominations/accessible-calderdale-disability-access-forum/

For more about the work of ACDAF or to join us https://visitsunlimited.org.uk/the-accessible-calderdale-project/

Thank you so much!

By casting your vote, you’ll spotlight lived-experience expertise and inspire further positive change across Calderdale and beyond.

Introducing the Hebden Bridge step-free access map

Accessible Calderdale is delighted to share the newly revised Hebden Bridge step-free access map and guide, 2025 revision. Produced by Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum (HBDAF), this resource highlights town-centre premises with step-free entrances, hearing loops and accessible toilets. Now available in multiple formats, it supports residents and visitors of all abilities to explore Hebden Bridge with confidence.

Overview of the map

The Hebden Bridge step-free access map clearly marks every business and public space that offers step-free access. Alongside this, the back-page guide lists:

• Premises with level or ramped entry

• Locations fitted with hearing loops

• Accessible toilet facilities

Both the map and guide are printable. A combined PDF and a Word version optimised for screen readers ensure everyone can benefit. As June Eaton of HBDAF explains, “If you need the map and guide in different formats, like jpg or large print, please ask.”

How to access the Hebden Bridge step-free access map

You can always download and print the latest version of the map from HBDAF’s webpage:

Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum and Hebden Access Map

Accessible Calderdale invites organisations to feature the map online or distribute printed copies widely to ensure everyone can find step-free routes and facilities in Hebden Bridge. You can also read more about HBDAF, their work and campaigns.

Inclusive formats and additional support

HBDAF has made the Hebden Bridge step-free access map accessible to all:

• Screen-reader friendly Word file

• Printable PDFs

• High-resolution JPGs and large-print versions upon request

Moreover, you can scan the QR code for current grants from the Community Foundation for Calderdale to support further accessibility projects. “Scan the QR Code for our current grants,” notes Rob Billson, Grants Manager at CFFC.

Why step-free access matters

Step-free access transforms urban spaces into inclusive environments. Consequently, people using wheelchairs, mobility aids or parents with pushchairs can navigate town centres independently. Moreover, hearing loops and accessible toilets improve experiences for those with sensory or personal care needs. For more information information on making your venue more accessible conatct us

Take action today

To explore Hebden Bridge without barriers, download your map now and share it with friends, family and customers.

Let’s make Calderdale open to everyone!

Introduction

This week marks mental health awareness week. It’s sad in a developed nation that we still need such existence of a week to raise awareness that looking after your mental wellbeing is as important as physical health. These statements underscore why we pause each year to focus on our inner resilience. By spotlighting mental wellbeing, we challenge the misconception that psychological health is secondary to physical fitness and encourage collective responsibility.

Everyone Has Mental Health

Everyone has mental health, we all can suffer from adverse factors happening in our life and it’s important that we remember this always. No one is immune to stress, grief or change. Consequently, recognising early warning signs such as sleep disturbance or withdrawal allows friends, family and professionals to intervene before issues escalate.

Confronting Stigma and Criticism

It seems a popular notion of late to berate and critic those with mental illness. Apparently too many people are being diagnosed ! Such attitudes deepen isolation and deter individuals from seeking help. Moreover, reframing mental illness as a treatable condition rather than a personal failing fosters understanding and compassion across communities.

Rising Suicide Rates

Yet the data tells us that suicides have been the highest since 1999. This shouldn’t be a shock if you have been in the UK long enough to see the pressures of life which we face. Financial strain, social media and rapid change all contribute. By sharing up-to-date statistics and personal stories, we demystify the crisis and motivate policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

The Daily Battle of Illness

Those pressures obviously hit those with mental illness the hardest. Mental illness is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone it’s a disease which is with you constantly which takes great strength and courage to fight daily. Acknowledging this relentless struggle honours the bravery of those affected and reminds us that support networks are not optional but essential.

The Role of the Third Sector

So what do we do ? We cannot give up? The third sector along with charity partnerships offer a lifeline in helping people who do not qualify for NHS services or need additional help in there lives. Organisations such as Mind deliver tailored counselling, peer-support groups and crisis lines. Their innovative schemes bridge gaps in care and ensure no one faces distress alone.

Innovative Low Cost Approaches

Innovative low cost approaches work and we need to not be afraid of trying these to aid our knowledge and try to save one more life and ease those with mental distress. From digital apps to community-led workshops, these models empower individuals to manage anxiety and depression proactively. Piloting such programmes can uncover best practices for scalable impact.

Physical Disability and Mental Health

Physical disability and mental health challenges often go together due to a complex set of factors. Social discrimination and lack of integrated care are just a part of the difficulties that people with mobility issues face in their life. People with physical disabilities are five times more likely to experience mental health challenges compared to the general population.

Conclusion

Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that psychological resilience underpins all lives. By confronting stigma, backing third sector initiatives and championing innovative, low cost interventions—especially for those with physical disabilities—we foster a truly inclusive society. Let us commit today to learning, connecting and protecting each other’s mental wellbeing.

Sara

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Disability Access Audits: Improving Inclusion in the Heritage Sector

Disability Access Audits are essential tools in creating truly inclusive spaces, especially within the heritage sector. As Katie Clarke from Visits Unlimited highlights in her interview with the Historic Environment Forum, “access audits are not a tick-box exercise – they are an opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes.” This perspective underpins the transformative power of these audits.

Katie, whose lived experience as a parent to a disabled adult child has deeply shaped her work, explains how Access Audits can open doors — literally and metaphorically. The process involves a detailed review of how accessible a building, service, or environment is to people with a wide range of access needs. More than just ramps and lifts, audits take into account signage, communication, sensory experience, and customer service. The aim is to promote an environment where everyone can participate fully and with dignity.

Understanding the Value of Disability Access Audits

In heritage and cultural settings, accessibility presents unique challenges due to the historic fabric of the buildings. However, as Katie states, “there is always something that can be done.” Through Disability Access Audits, venues learn how to make reasonable adjustments while preserving the character of historic spaces.

The work of Visits Unlimited goes beyond physical audits — it includes training and staff engagement. “We support organisations to be brave, to start the conversation and to listen,” Katie says. The process encourages organisations to move past fear of getting things wrong and instead focus on continual improvement.

A Catalyst for Cultural Change

Disability Access Audits also play a key role in promoting organisational resilience and diversity. By embedding inclusive practices, heritage sites can serve a broader audience and foster long-term community engagement. Katie notes how inclusion “sits at the heart of resilience,” emphasising that accessibility isn’t a one-off project but a long-term commitment to cultural change.

For those looking to improve accessibility within their own organisations, support and resources are available at Visits Unlimited.

Ultimately, Disability Access Audits are not just about compliance — they’re about compassion, insight, and empowering all visitors to enjoy heritage equally.

You can read the full article here :- https://historicenvironmentforum.org.uk/diversity-inclusion-resilience-an-interview-with-katie-clarke-at-visits-unlimited/

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The Importance of a Disability Access Audit for Inclusive Outdoor Spaces

Hi guys,

I’m just sitting here in the spring sunshine – (waiting for the hour to change at the weekend) – which sets me to thinking about one of the best parts of my job – auditing ( Disability Access Audit ) open spaces.

Getting outside in the sunshine, looking at green spaces, parks and riverside walks.

I’ve done plenty over the years, with commissions for country parks, civic parks, play areas and river walks to name but a few, and nowadays it’s gratifying to see some results coming through.

I’ve always liked the concept of civic parks – a taste of the country on your doorstep, to use for rest and relaxation after a hard week’s work. Of course, more people came to realise their value with Covid providing the impetus to get out in the fresh air whilst having room to keep a safe distance from other users.

Ensuring Accessibility for All

But I want these spaces to be inclusive, accessible to all, so I look in forensic detail at paths and benches and toilets etc – the things that can make or break your few hours in the sun. I particularly look at play areas, making sure all children can actually participate, not just sit looking on as their mates have the time of their lives. Spaces and routes for wheelchair users around the equipment, colours to catch people’s notice, textures to feel, noises to hear – everybody can be accommodated with a little imagination. You can have a ramp into a playhouse, and you can get anyone onto a roundabout with a little decent design.

The Role of Local Volunteers

Of course, I’m never alone in this outdoor mission – every audit brings me into contact with urban warrior volunteers with great knowledge, helpful advice, and of course, plenty of enthusiasm.

I must mention two in particular here – the late, lamented Joan who accompanied me around Shroggs Park and Paddock Gardens to name but two, full of energy and information and humour, and Hakar who has pushed me around so many green spaces, manhandling me in and out of my car when parked on sloping, cobbled roads, rushing off to take photos in places I could never reach, and still having the time to explain the whole of world politics to me on the way home!

Positive Changes in Accessibility with a Disability Access Audit

Positive changes I’ve noticed include the super-fast construction of a new, accessible path across Brackenbed Park, the remodelling of the lower path into Bramston Park, the construction of a massive, accessible viewing structure at Cromwell Bottom (amongst many other inclusive improvements there), oversight of huge flood mitigation measures in Wellholme Park and inclusive changes to many play areas around the area.

I’ve had lovely surprises – enjoying conducting an audit at Crow Wood Park and coming across a superb, unexpected, accessible Boules Court – now that’s a good game for all, in a wheelchair or not, totally inclusive.

And I’ve had shocks – checking Shibden Park, having been told their tourist train is fully accessible, only to find it actually didn’t have an accessible carriage connected – it was hidden back in the car park because it made the train too long to be maneuverable!

Looking Ahead

So, I look forward to the new season. What could be better? Countryside drive, sitting in a lovely park with my packed lunch, chance of an ice-cream later, and always on every single job, chance encounters and conversations with so many lovely people. It’s amazing how interesting people find a lone wheelchair user, sandwich in hand, moving around taking notes and photographs – they just have to ask!

Feel free, maybe I’ll see you next time?

Chris

Contact us to discuss your access audits countrywide.

What is an Access Audit and Why Is It Important for Your Venue?

An access audit is a thorough evaluation that assesses how accessible your venue is for people with disabilities. This audit is essential in identifying potential barriers and recommending practical solutions to ensure your venue is inclusive to all. The goal is to make your venue accessible not just for disabled visitors, but for a wider audience, including families with young children, the elderly, and people with mobility scooters. In short, an access audit aims to enhance your venue’s overall accessibility and provide a better experience for everyone who visits.

✅ We provide access audits across the country!

Why You Need an Access Audit

Whatever sort of venue you run, you want as many people as possible to visit it. You want lots of people in, lots of money to be spent and satisfied customers. Remember, if your venue is good for disabled people then it’s good for everyone – families with buggies, kids on bikes, older people, those with mobility scooters and the rest.

Disabled people are all members of families want to enjoy life just like everyone else. If they’ve gone to lots of trouble to research your venue, work out how to get there, then they want the family to enjoy a proper, and uncomplicated visit.

✅ They need access all around the site, somewhere to eat/picnic, toilets for everyone – and if it’s really going well, buying presents in the welcoming gift shop.
✅ A big family group and friends included would all need to get in, to eat, to have treats, to buy gifts, so the money soon adds up! Remember the Purple Pound should not be ignored.

Why Choose Visits Unlimited for Your Access Audit?

At Visits Unlimited, we go beyond basic compliance. While others might simply point out what’s missing, we provide actionable recommendations tailored to your venue. When I visit your venue, I take the time to get to know you and your premises. I’ll write you a detailed report with lots of comments and recommendations, and I’ll always explain our suggestions. For example:

✅ Parking Spaces: “They say – you have four disabled parking spaces. I say – whether that is sufficient, if they are large enough, marked out properly, signed, and located correctly.”

✅ Accessible Toilets: “They say – your accessible toilet is too small. I say – how large it should be, where it could be relocated, what it should contain.”

✅ Café Accessibility: “They say – the café is accessible. I say – but the door is too stiff and the approach is too steep.”

I also address path surfaces, seating provision, and other details, ensuring your venue meets the highest standards. As I often explain, “You may have heard of ‘Reasonable Adjustments’ in this regard – we’ll have a grown-up discussion about how they might apply to your venue.”

The Benefits of Accessibility and Social Media Promotion

Accessibility matters, not just for the sake of disabled visitors. It has a broader impact on your venue’s reputation. The disabled community is particularly active on social media, and a positive experience at your venue will quickly be shared online. Word-of-mouth recommendations can go viral, leading to more disabled visitors and their families making the effort to visit your venue.

This increased footfall can result in more spending. Disabled visitors will spend money not only on tickets or entrance fees but also on food, gifts, and other services at your venue. By making your venue accessible, you are investing in long-term success. It’s a win-win situation: you provide an inclusive, welcoming space for all visitors, and in return, you benefit from increased customer loyalty and spending.

If you’re interested in learning more about our access audits and how they can improve your venue’s accessibility, please get in touch with Katie at katie@visitsunlimited.org.uk. Or contact us here https://visitsunlimited.org.uk/contact-us/ .Our friendly auditor, Chris, will be happy to guide you through the process and help you make your venue more accessible for everyone.