News Archives - Visits Unlimited

Visits Unlimited – Our access audits explained

17 February 2025

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Categories: Access audits, Accessibility, Accessibility training, Accessibility training for museums and historic sites, Blog, News

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.

Enhancing Accessibility: Training for Museums and Historic Sites

10 February 2025

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Categories: Accessibility, Accessibility training, Accessibility training for museums and historic sites, Blog, News

Enhancing Accessibility: Training for Museums and Historic Sites

So, the New Year dawns and I head off for my first distant assignment – a long-anticipated trip down south. Historic Docks at Chatham was the destination. You can tell we don’t get out much, or travel far enough, because the first plans we made were taking us to Plymouth or Portsmouth (where there are indeed historic dockyards), but not to Chatham.
To be honest, there was a memory I had that Chatham was in Kent, probably an old TV programme or similar.

Then, the planning – How far is it? Do you need a passport? Do they understand (Northern) English? What’s the food like?
Relax – I’m joking, I have some very good friends in that part of the country, but still, it’s about 4½ hours driving!

A Journey to Chatham: The Challenges of Historic Sites

I located a Travelodge very close to the site and enjoyed a restful evening there. Morning broke with a thin mist from the nearby water with the promise of sun later, so I (foolishly) decided to push to the Dockyards – cool, crisp air, absolutely level, solid path – great for fitness which is sadly lacking with me since Christmas overindulgence. What could possibly go wrong???? I’ll tell you what could possibly go wrong – the absolutely level, solid path took me to the first buildings, but the building I actually needed was at the very far end of the site, and the site is huge, has some very dodgy surfaces (cobbles and the like) and totally pointless and unexpected gradients!
Luckily, on the worst section, a cyclist going in the opposite direction abandoned his bike in the road and pushed me to the top of the last hill! The kindness of strangers – I could write a book!

Anyway, I got there on time (just) to be greeted by my contact who immediately rushed off to get me a mug of tea (New best friend)!

Delivering Accessibility Training for Museums and Historic Sites

The training was a delight – 4 groups of about 30 people each, rotating for different talks. 75 minutes per group, lots of breaks. Worked for me – easy to fill 75 mins and then repeat, but it’s amazing how different each talk was. One different question and you’re off on a different tack. I personally loved every minute. They seemed to enjoy it too, with lots of people staying behind to ask questions.

I particularly enjoyed this day because it was different. I’ve done lots of stately homes and gardens and museums, lots of galleries with pictures and costumes, lots of stables, lots of kitchen gardens, but no dockyards. This leads to many new problems and new questions – how accessible can you make a wooden pirate galleon??? Can you expect a modern submarine to be wheelchair accessible??? Is rope climbing completely out of the question???
Now, tell me if I’m wrong, but I wouldn’t turn up there and expect to participate fully in the submarine tour – but some wheelchair users do?!? I found the whole day fascinating from so many points of view.

Aerial photograph of Chatham Historic Dockyard Chatham Kent UK showing HMS Gannet, HMS Ocelot and HMS Cavalier

Overcoming Accessibility Challenges in Historic Locations

Providing accessibility training for museums and historic sites is crucial in helping venues understand the unique challenges that visitors with disabilities face. While some locations naturally present more difficulties than others, it is always possible to improve inclusivity. Whether it’s ensuring clear signage, providing alternative experiences, or training staff to assist visitors effectively, small changes can make a huge impact. The Historic Docks at Chatham provided a fresh perspective on accessibility, reminding me that even the most historic or unconventional sites can find ways to accommodate everyone.

And then, the push back was easy because the gradients were now all downhill and there were plenty of volunteers who wanted to help!
Hopefully we’ll be asked to visit again, because I loved it!

Onwards and upwards, possibly another London visit to report on soon.

Cheers,
Chris

Contact us to discuss your accessibility training countrywide.

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

Chris Cammiss and His Adventures as an Access Auditor

14 January 2025

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Categories: Accessibility, Accessible Hebden Bridge, Blog, Calderdale Project Update, News

Reflecting on a Busy 2024

What a year 2024 was! It was busier and more varied than ever. Access audits galore. My work as an access auditor took me far and wide—from Calderdale to Worcester, mid Wales, and Cumbria.

Lots of outdoor work last year, with exploration of the Hebble Trail in Calderdale and connections to it, surveys of potentially useful green spaces, and lots of detailed work on several public parks, with a view to increasing access for children with disabilities.

Access Audits Enhancing Local Facilities

I contributed to several key projects:

Accessibility improvements for three leisure centres.
Developing pedestrian routes in Todmorden.
Planning the upgrade of Todmorden Market.
Advising planners on access enhancements in Brighouse.

These efforts are part of my mission to make public spaces more accessible.

But, as always, there have been some quirky visits – Heptonstall Museum
https://heptonstallmuseumfriends.org.uk/
with its display of The Gallows Pole materials, the downstairs concert venue at Grayston Unity
https://thegraystonunity.co.uk/

and the offices of Community Foundation for Calderdale
https://cffc.co.uk/.

But, I wouldn’t carry on with this work if it wasn’t fun – and there has been a lot of fun.

Parking on a cobbled street in Heptonstall at an angle of what felt like 45°, and having to be physically pulled in and out of my car with someone’s hand round my trouser belt so as not to miss my wheelchair is not standard procedure.

Being accosted by the police whilst measuring paths and pavements outside the Community Foundation for Calderdale offices doesn’t happen every day.

National Adventures with the Artfund

The big finish was work for the Artfund,
https://www.artfund.org/, checking galleries around the UK.

A visit to Blackwell House in Cumbria
https://www.visitlakedistrict.com/things-to-do/blackwell-the-arts-and-crafts-house-p1211861
was spectacular – pity the designated parking was only visible once I’d left my car in the standard car park and pushed to the entrance!

Worcester Gallery was lovely,
https://www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk/, with a great lunch! The problem here wasn’t finding the site – you could circle it for hours – it was parking. Not a car-friendly environment – which is fine in principle unless you depend on the car (as I do).

Ty Pawb in Wrexham
https://www.typawb.wales
was the best – big galleries set in a building with lots of food stalls. Almost ate myself to bursting (well you’ve got to try stuff – it’s only polite!) and came home with bags and bags of old-fashioned sweets. And this place was directly connected to a multi-storey car park with free parking for me!

Looking Ahead to Access Audits 2025

So, 2025 begins – and it looks set to be as busy as last year.

Massive job to survey almost every public car park in Calderdale, volunteer training in Kent, pub audit in Birmingham planned, new Halifax Leisure Centre. Wow!

Watch this space,

Chris (man on a mission)

Contact us about your access audits
https://visitsunlimited.org.uk/contact-us/

Accessibility was a major issue during my stay at Lumley Castle.

22 November 2023

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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, News

My latest excursion was to the far North – historic Durham, Lumley Castle to be precise, for the Visit Durham Autumn Conference.

Accessibility was a major issue during my stay at Lumley Castle.

I’d agreed to go to represent all our groups and ended up presenting, much to my surprise!

Very interesting event almost scuppered by a mix-up on my arrival the night before.

We’d booked a room for the night before (we have documentary proof!), but when I arrived – no booking to be found. No booking for any accessible room under any name at all!

Turned out, after a frantic half-hour. That there was a booking for me on the day of the conference – I’d been put on the wrong page!.

After a quick check by the cleaning staff, I was in!

But into what? A long portable ramp was deployed to overcome two steps on entry to the corridor. This had to be left in place for my whole 24-hour stay, although the entrance led to five other bookable rooms.

I was then shown into a comfortably large room and left to explore.

It was listed as an accessible room on the website but after a thorough look around I could only find one vertical grab rail in the shower pod which constituted any form of aid – no rails around the toilet, no bath, no accessible shower, no shower seat, in fact no room to turn around in the bathroom!

Watch this space!

Luckily, the Conference was great – string of interesting talks and presentations, lots of lovely people to meet.

An image of five people in front of a large fireplace. Chris is in the centre.

My talk went down well I think. In it I had listed several places I’d audited in Durham, including Raby Castle, which I luckily gave a glowing report. As I finished, a smiling gentleman came up to me and shook my hand, introducing himself as the interim Chair of Visit Durham. Turned out he was the CEO of Raby! I’ve now got an invitation to return!

Afterwards, I bought some “Coals from Newcastle” from the display of local trades held next door. Black honeycomb as you ask. Then headed home in time for dinner.

Next trip – UK Tourism in exotic Leeds next week!

Intrepid Chris

Read more about the Autumn Conference 2023 Here

Patient with ALS in Australia first person to tweet using direct thought via brain-computer interface

5 January 2022

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Categories: Blog, News

ALS Patient Tweets “Hello, World!” Using Brain Implant

Philip O’Keefe, an Australian man with ALS, has become the first person to tweet using only his thoughts.

O’Keefe received an endovascular Stentrode brain computer interface (BCI) in April 2020, which allows him to control digital devices with his mind.

In a tweet on December 25, 2022, O’Keefe wrote, “hello, world!” He used the hashtag #HelloWorldBCI to share his experience with the world and offer inspiration for the future.

O’Keefe’s tweet is a significant milestone for the field of BCI research. It shows that BCIs have the potential to restore independence and communication for people with ALS and other paralyzing conditions.

How does the Stentrode BCI work?

The Stentrode BCI is implanted in the brain through the jugular vein. It contains a small chip that records electrical signals from the brain. These signals are then sent to a computer, which converts them into commands that can be used to control digital devices.

The Stentrode BCI is designed to be user-friendly and dependable. Patients can learn to use it in a matter of weeks.

What are the benefits of the Stentrode BCI?

The Stentrode BCI can help people with ALS to regain a degree of independence. They can use it to control their computers, phones, and other devices. They can also use it to communicate with their loved ones.

The Stentrode BCI could also be used to help people with other paralyzing conditions, such as spinal cord injury and stroke.

What are the limitations of the Stentrode BCI?

The Stentrode BCI is still in its early stages of development. It is not yet clear how long it will last or how effective it will be in the long term.

The Stentrode BCI is also not a cure for ALS. It cannot stop the progression of the disease.

What is the future of BCI research?

BCI research is rapidly advancing. Scientists are working on developing BCIs that are more powerful, more user-friendly, and more durable.

BCIs have the potential to revolutionize the way we treat a wide range of neurological conditions. They could help people with ALS, spinal cord injury, stroke, and other paralyzing conditions to regain their independence and quality of life.

More information on BusinessWire here.

Chris has been busy working with the team developing plans for the projected Station to be built at Elland

11 November 2020

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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, News

Improving Accessibility Through Collaboration

As you know, I’ve always been passionate about influencing local planning decisions. Whether it’s improving the roads, opening a new building, or changing land use, I always have an opinion – I’m a Yorkshireman after all! I believe my knowledge and lived experience with disability are valuable contributions, but is simply voicing complaints from the sidelines truly effective?

Anyone can shout, “That will never work!” or “You can’t be serious!” It might feel satisfying in the moment, but does it really make a difference? So, what happens when someone actually says, “Alright, put your money where your mouth is. Work with us and tell us where we’re going wrong”?

Believe me, it’s incredibly satisfying.

Accessibility A train comes into the station at Elland — A train comes into the station at Elland

From Outsider to Insider

I was recently invited to work with the team developing plans for a new station in Elland, alongside accessibility improvements in the surrounding area. It was a truly positive experience. I was listened to, included in every decision, and made to feel like a valued member of the team.

This experience opened my eyes to the immense amount of research that goes into such planning, and the delicate balancing act required for many decisions. From my perspective, I might propose a specific solution based on my extensive knowledge of my disability and the needs of others. The team, while familiar with some accessibility concerns, also has to consider costs, complex engineering requirements, underlying building constraints shaped by the landscape, and local pressures from residents, businesses, hospitals, schools, and so on.

Aerial artists impression of the proposed station at Elland. Trees are in the background with bridges over two rivers in the foreground — Aerial artists’ impression of the proposed station at Elland. Trees are in the background with bridges over two rivers in the foreground

The Complexity of Seemingly Simple Solutions

Luckily, my background in maths allows me to understand the detailed architects’ and engineers’ plans. Even seemingly simple constructions like a public shelter on a platform or a ramp up to a bridge involve immense complexity.

Learning and Earning Respect

Through this collaboration, I’m gaining valuable insight into the planning process. While my core principles of improving accessibility remain unchanged, I’ve gained immense respect for the designers, architects, and engineers who strive to follow guidelines and regulations while providing what the public wants, all within budget constraints.

Aerial artists impression of the West Vale Bridge at Elland. Trees are in the background with bridges over a river on the left

Accessibility Building Bridges, Not Walls

Hopefully, I’m also making a positive impact on the team. By working together, we can break down barriers, create new connections and priorities, and even change long-held perspectives on accessibility.

Ultimately, as in every aspect of life, even the most straightforward-looking situations involve compromise. But through collaboration, we can achieve the best possible outcome for everyone.

Until next time, keep safe,

Chris

Up-to-date information about the Elland Train Station Click Here

Information about joining ACDAF Here

Extreme Auditing (working through the Pandemic)

29 October 2020

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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, News

Access Audits. Extreme auditing, working through the pandemic. Chris is out and about even through the difficult times…

Well, I certainly can’t remember a year anything like this one – it seemed to come to a grinding halt in March, and it’s certainly not back on the rails yet.

For the team at Visits Unlimited you might think that would be the end of things for the foreseeable future, no one going anywhere, no one meeting up with anyone, not a bit of it.

We’re far more resourceful and resilient to accept that!

True – work did drop off a cliff for a few weeks, audit dates in the diary were cancelled, people didn’t know what could or should happen, but that didn’t last for long at our Accessible Calderdale Project. After a few weeks of hiding away, people started peeping over the parapet and gingerly climbing over.

Fully Accessible, The Space @ Field Lane is a new community Space in Calderdale

18 May 2020

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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, News

Building Opportunity for All: Accessibility at the Heart of The Space @ Field Lane

The concept of a community space thrives on inclusivity. It’s a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to participate. Accessibility, therefore, becomes an essential cornerstone in building a thriving community hub.

This is precisely the philosophy behind The Space @ Field Lane, a resident-owned and operated community centre in Calderdale. Their mission statement, “building opportunity in our community,” takes on a special meaning when considering their commitment to accessibility.

Prioritising Accessibility from the Start

The Space isn’t your average community building. Unlike many pre-existing structures, accessibility wasn’t an afterthought; it was woven into the very fabric of the project from the beginning. This commitment is evident in the inclusion of a dedicated Changing Places facility – a vital amenity often missing in public buildings, which can significantly limit accessibility for disabled people.

The Space @ Field Lane group understood this challenge. While incorporating the Changing Places facility added delays and funding hurdles, they persevered, recognising the significant impact it would have on inclusivity.

Accessibility in Action

Accessibility extends beyond designated facilities. The Space actively seeks to remove barriers and ensure a smooth experience for all. Their collaboration with accessibility auditors demonstrates their dedication to identifying and rectifying even minor obstacles, like the initial double door issue. These seemingly small details can make a big difference in ensuring a truly accessible environment.

Fostering a Welcoming Space

The Space isn’t just about physical accessibility; it fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all. Partnerships with organisations like the Wheelchair Enabling Society and the Disability Partnership create opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. This focus on inclusivity extends even to events – The Space aspires to become a go-to venue for celebrations, specifically catering to those who require Changing Places amenities.

During the Accessibility audit some other small points were highlighted – things which able-bodied people just don’t think about – like the position of soap dispensers over the sink. All in all though the Accessibility Auditor commended The Space on its accessibility and forward thinking.

All that the Space group now needs is for the building to re-open and lots of people to use it.

The Wheelchair Enabling Society has run chair exercises at The Space and the Disability Partnership set up a series of lunches which are now run by The Space management committee.

The clean, modern and bright nature of the building make it very popular for children’s birthday parties. The trustees hope that it will not be long before those children and adults who need Changing Space facilities. For whom therefore the bulk of public buildings are not suitable for celebrations, will see The Space as their venue of choice.

The mission of The Space group is ‘building opportunity in our community’ and it seems that really does mean opportunity for all, and that includes those who need a Changing Space

Building a Stronger Community

The Space @ Field Lane serves as a shining example of how accessibility can be a driving force in building a stronger community. By prioritising accessibility from the outset, The Space ensures everyone has the opportunity to participate, connect, and contribute. This commitment to inclusivity paves the way for a more vibrant and equitable community for all.

For more information, telephone 01484 5560924, see the website: www.thespaceatfieldlane.org.uk or the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/thespacefieldlane/

What’s in a name?…….and the name is “accessible”……..

30 April 2020

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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, News

Accessible, Well, we all know what that means now, don’t we? Read on…..

Accessible? A few weeks ago my partner and I were feeling a little stir crazy and thought we deserved a weekend away, so that’s what we planned.
(Ironically this was the weekend just prior to hearing Government advice not to travel unless totally necessary. So, we had a lovely three days of gorgeous villages, artisan markets, great weather, excellent meals and too much to drink, to return to a different world. If we thought we were stir crazy then….?)

ACCESSIBLE CALDERDALE PROJECT

11 January 2019

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Categories: Accessibility, Accessible Hebden Bridge, Blog, Calderdale Project Update, Events, News

Calderdale Gets Major Accessibility Boost!

Visits Unlimited, a Halifax-based user-led organization, has secured 3 years of funding from the Community Foundation for Calderdale. This exciting development allows them to build upon their successful work. With disabled people, local voluntary groups, and various stakeholders like the local authority, visitor attractions, transport companies, businesses, and Visit Calderdale.

Their ultimate goal is clear: to transform Calderdale into a fully accessible and welcoming environment. In essence, they want everyone, including people with disabilities and their families, to fully enjoy the area and create lasting memories that will make them want to return.

But who exactly are Visits Unlimited?

A leading force in accessibility, Visits Unlimited works collaboratively with tourism industry colleagues, both locally and nationally. Their expertise extends to a comprehensive training and access audit program offered across England. Their impressive roster of clients includes prestigious names like the National Trust, English Heritage, various sports grounds, major tourist attractions, small businesses, theaters, music venues, museums, and hotels.

Locally, Visits Unlimited has already made a significant impact. Funded by a 2015 grant from the Community Foundation for Calderdale, their Accessible Hebden project proved highly successful. Through collaboration with disabled people, they conducted over 40 access audits and surveys on small businesses, empowering them to become more accessible. The positive legacy continues! This project is now an integral part of local strategic work, and the Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum actively promotes accessibility by influencing new planning and designs.

Accessible Calderdale

Firstly Accessible Calderdale is building on this work and will be working across Calderdale. Together with Disability Partnership Calderdale to ensure that we have the voice of disabled people, their families and carers, organisations working with people with a range of impairments to have a say in how the project runs.

“Visits Unlimited have been a catalyst for us on the Hebden Bridge project. We had identified access issues with our Access Group but just turning up was not good enough. Visits Unlimited did a report on the train station and to have their report under our arm has given strength to our argument every single time we have met and we were able to go to Network Rail and the highway authorities – it has made a big difference. I have learned a lot – things I did not know or what was available.” Hebden Bridge Partnership.

“Our disability survey was extremely useful as we did not appreciate the things that needed doing. Chris gave us lots of useful simple ideas including even changing the door knob on the toilet facilities that we never thought about.” Pennine Heritage.

The project has developed two working groups which convened in December 2018, ‘How to get there’ with a focus on accessible transport and ‘Places to go’ which focuses on accessible tourism. The groups will meet four times a year and are integral to the project in developing Calderdale into an accessible and inclusive place.

Calderdale Disability Access Forum

In essence, Visits Unlimited are establishing a Calderdale Disability Access Forum. So any organisation or individual wishing to get involved can contact the project coordinator, Lorraine Beiley. The group will meet in March 2019. We are delighted to have already made some good alliances with voluntary and community sector. The local authority and Visit Calderdale, and are holding an event at Square Chapel on February 26^th 2019. Guest speakers include Visit England, our own Eureka and Accessible Derbyshire.

#wewelcomeeveryone. We will be doing free access audits and there will be opportunity for community organisations. To apply for a small grant from Community Foundation for Calderdale.

Contact details

For more information contact Lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk or rob@cffc .co.uk

Accessible venues to visit and places to stay. The VisitEngland Access for All Award Winners.

2 September 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

We love this downloadable resource hot off the press from Visit England https://www.visitengland.com/sites/default/files/downloads/accessawards2016_brochure.pdf

It makes things so much easier to have accessible venues to visit and places to stay in one place rather than having to trawl through the internet and spend hours planning a trip. I can honestly say that it takes us many hours and sometimes weeks to organise a trip away with our family when we have to take into consideration our daughter’s complex access needs. Things have definitely improved in recent years and there are some really excellent websites now that we are able to go to that include:

https://www.euansguide.com/

https://accomable.com/

www.disabledgo.com/

http://www.attitudeiseverything.org.uk/

https://www.tourismforall.org.uk/

http://www.accessiblederbyshire.org/

http://www.accessiblecountryside.org.uk/

plus of course some excellent specialist travel companies.

If you have any good links and contacts that you use please do let us know as we are working on a list for families to download from our website.

Do Something Different, Update

12 August 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

Do something Different Survey closes on 4 September so please let us know about the places you have visitied in Yorkshire or Humberside, and want to recommend to others.

We have had fantastic suggestions from walks in the countryside, parks and pools to short breaks and train journeys. It doesnt matter if you recommend the same place, it just means it must be good so please fill in our survey.

We want to make days out easier and provide people with inspirational ideas that dont need to cost alot, but can be enjoyed by the whole family because thats the important part.

I forgot to mention that we are offering the chance to win one of three family days out if you complete the survey and entre the prize draw. Go on you could be a winner.
Thank you, Audrey

Click Here to go to the survey

Service with a smile is key for great service.

26 April 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

What is the one thing that makes a trip worthwhile? How did the day out make you feel? What do you remember most when you go home?

Katie Clark shares her thoughts.

I know that for me it is the small things that make a difference and it is usually to do with feeling welcomed. The smile at the reception when I go in after having had a tricky journey and not being able to park near to the entrance as the places were all full. Or after getting lost and the sat nav told me that “you have arrived at your destination” and I knew only too well that the country lane with a couple of houses on either side was not where I had hoped to end up.

A smile really makes a difference. To be greeted by a friendly and confident member of staff who is not put off by 6 children plus an electric wheelchair makes all the difference.

A few words like “is there anything I can do to help?” is like music to the ears. What hits me is that this does not happen enough. In fact as it is quite rare it is actually not just music to my ears but a symphony playing at the Royal Albert Hall. Sometimes the shock of someone asking me takes me aback and I need a few minutes to compose myself to answer. I could say “oh no I am fine thanks” as that is rather British but actually instead I say “oh thank you, that is great. Not at the moment but I will get back to you if I do!” In return I give the person a big smile. They smile back and although the whole interaction only took less than 30 seconds it has given me a spark, some zest, a new lease of life that helps makes the trip now worthwhile and sets me in the right frame of mind for a memorable day out.

Brighton Centre – Winning performances on and off stage!

17 February 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

Great to hear of this work and happy to share this article from Suzanne Mantell, Visitor Services Manager at the Brighton Centre.

Set in the historic and vibrant city of Brighton & Hove, The Brighton Centre is one of the largest conference & entertainment centres in the South East of England, with a capacity of up to 5,500. The venue has recently been awarded ‘gold status’ for its commitment to Deaf and disabled music fans, following recognition by Attitude is Everything – the charity that campaigns on behalf of disabled audiences and operates a nationwide Charter of Best Practice.

To qualify for Charter status, live music venues and festivals must demonstrate exemplary access provision and an on-going commitment to improving accessibility – working with Attitude is Everything to go beyond the legal obligations set out in the Equality Act, to implement best practice, and to provide a fair and equal service to their Deaf and disabled customers.

Brighton Centre was specifically recognised by Attitude is Everything for:
• Their long term commitment to accessibility
• Innovative provision of additional viewing platform spaces
• Installation of a Changing Places toilet
• Working with local disability organisations as partners in growing access provision

The venue is particularly pleased about the addition of the Changing Places toilet, which is not just for the use of customers at the venue, but can be used by anyone who needs it when their Box Office is open (Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm).

Alongside the work with Attitude is Everything, the Brighton Centre also worked with VisitEngland and took part in their recent Access for All project, whose aims were to improve accessibility for all. Accessibility training for staff was a key element of this project, a large part of which was delivered by Visits Unlimited to more than 50 businesses from seven destinations in England. Staff at the Brighton Centre very much valued the training, which was delivered in a thought provoking yet still fun way, and which encouraged the staff who attended to aim for even higher standards in their plans to improve access at the venue.

More information about accessibility in Brighton & Hove is available from http://www.visitbrighton.com/plan-your-visit/accessibility

‘Customer Service For All’ – Visits Unlimited training offer.

1 February 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

This time of year is pretty hectic for management teams and training co-ordinators at heritage sites and attractions as new starters in customer facing roles commence induction and settle in.

Visits Unlimited are keen to support your volunteers and visitor experience managers in delivering outstanding customer service to all visitors at your attraction including those with specific needs.

Check out our accredited and assessment ready training workshops for an inspiring face-to-face training experience at your venue with our passionate, qualified and experienced trainers.

Get in touch by email or our contact form in February and book us now for preferential rates and payment terms.

A warm welcome: Annie Riley at The Deep, Hull.

Visits Unlimited January Training Offer!

8 January 2016

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Categories: Blog, News

Now is the critical time for organisations in the UK tourism industry to plan their employee training schedule for 2016. If planning your training calendar now you may be considering questions like:

1) We need to consider all customers including those with specific needs,

2) We must ensure all our personnel meet legislative duty within the Equality Act 2010,

3) Will our volunteers be confident in communicating with difficult clients and managing difficult service scenarios and the range of service expectations our organisation demands?

4) Our training budget must be allocated to high quality, measurable training that has long term value.

January Offer

Visits Unlimited are delighted to be able to offer a bespoke range of Customer Service courses for management, staff and volunteers within a compelling January offer.

All courses and workshop sessions map to the nationally recognised Level 2 Extended Award in the Principles of Customer Service in Hospitality, Leisure, Travel and Tourism. Your staff can progress to formal qualification through our training – genuine CPD value.

All courses booked in January will receive a 40% discount on our standard rates. That equates to £35.00 per delegate typically.
Our discounted January rate is £600 plus travel for the day (9.30am to 4.30pm) for up to 20 people.
Book us for a training course now and you can pay for it in April.

We are happy to train staff from multiple sites to share costs – upto 35 people for £1000 including travel expenses for a full day’s training session at a location of your choosing.

Added value!

We provide all learning resources within the fee.

Delegates booking in January will receive complimentary subscription to our forum and resource portal from April 2016 to April 2o17! You can utilise our latest resources all year round.

Free promotion! We’ll share your training achievements across our extensive partnership network within the industry and the public.

Expert Chris joins team Visits Unlimited

27 November 2015

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Categories: Blog, News

We are delighted to welcome Chris to the team.

Chris Cammiss B SC (Hons) Physics. PGCE: Access Auditor/Associate Consultant Trainer

I’m a full-time wheelchair user, having contracted polio as a child. I have lived the disabled life since the age of seven, worked all my life, been married and brought up my children. My work is viewed from the perspective of a wheelchair user.

After graduating from Manchester University and following the hippy trail across America for a year, I decided to train as a secondary school teacher. There followed a long, rewarding career as a Maths and Sciences teacher, Head of Department, in a range of inner-city state comprehensives. I had to take early retirement following an operation to reconstruct my right shoulder and subsequent rehabilitation, all caused by too many years of physical abuse playing wheelchair basketball (aggressively) and running the occasional marathon. I then worked as a long-term volunteer at the Manchester Commonwealth Games 2002 where I found a niche advising on disabled access at the venues and on general language/behaviour around disabled athletes and visitors.

For the last few years I have worked for Disabled Living, a long-established Manchester charity. Here I deliver well-received courses in Disability Awareness/Equality which takes me all over the UK. I conduct Access Audits up to any degree of complexity (NRAC) as requested by the client. I give specialist advice on any disability related issues.

Outside work my passions are travel (USA, Europe, NZ, Cuba, Peru, Singapore HK…), live sport (rugby, football, basketball …) and live music (the louder and darker the better …). I write articles for Rough Guides and generally like to involve myself in any disabled issue of the day.

I’m delighted to work with the team at Visits Unlimited.

The Deep making waves for all visitors.

29 October 2015

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Categories: Blog, Corporate, News

I’ve been delighted to work with Louise Kirby, Operations and Personnel Manager and Zoe Montgomerie, Marketing Officer of The Deep in Hull.

We worked together on two aspects specifically. Firstly to review and develop their Access Statement document and then address website usability for disabled visitors – the first ‘point of service’ for visitors on the planning cycle leading to their visit.

The Deep understand the benefits a day out makes to a family or travelling party that includes a disabled member in that travelling group. It’s not just a moral obligation to make accessibility central to any marketing and operational strategic plan, it makes total sense to use ‘accessibility’ as a vehicle to drive forward superior customer service across the board.

So why bother putting time and effort into developing an access statement? It’s pretty frustrating when I see access statements that don’t reflect the services offered at a venue. Imagine a retailer having no product in the window display? So we worked on addressing layout, content and usability with the disabled visitor in mind.

Now potential and repeat disabled visitors have not only great facilities and service provision but relevant and easy to find information when researching this terrific attraction. As a parent carer myself, I can’t wait to visit now. And thanks to the recent work we’ve completed it won’t feel like I’m ‘taking the plunge’ when I visit The Deep!

The Deep is delighted to have had the chance to work with Visits Unlimited to update the access information available about our attraction, products and services. Spurred on by an excellent practical and insightful presentation by Visits Unlimited at VisitEngland’s Purple Pound conference, The Deep set out to review how its Access Statement could better serve our customers. Visits Unlimited helped to focus our vision and provided us with real feedback in a positive way; they clearly share our desire to improve accessibility within the tourism industry. They make the most of their specialist knowledge alongside appreciating the needs of the operator.
Louise Kirby, Operations & Personnel Manager, The Deep

Big week for Matt contributing at the School of Social Entrepreneur programme

19 October 2015

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Categories: Blog, News

Director Matt has been selected to join the School of Social Entrepreneur Programme after gruelling shortlisting process including Dragons Den style pitch in July.

Now on the programme, Matt is excited looking forward to working with other social entrepreneurs on the programme commencing tomorrow in Liverpool and over the course of the year.

https://www.the-sse.org/about-school-for-social-entrepreneurs/

Acclaim for Visit England “Access For All’ Training Programme.

4 June 2015

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Categories: Blog, Corporate, News

The access training element of VisitEngland’s project ‘Access For All’ (co-funded by the European Commission) is now reaching conclusion. Access Unlimited, the collaborative partners of the face-to-face training element of the programme made up of Visits Unlimited, The Accessible Training Company and Access Solutions, are on the last leg of their England tour with six of the seven regions involved in the project now trained.

Katie Clarke of Visits Unlimited has led the training and has toured Lincoln, Birmingham, Nottingham, the Peak District, Brighton and yesterday, Kent. Businesses from hotels, Premier League football clubs, theatres and restaurants all came together to form regional ‘Accessible Destinations’ with the common aim to work together in understanding accessible tourism and becoming more accessible and appealing to all visitors.

Northumberland businesses make up the seventh ‘Accessible Destination’ to receive this training on the 10th June. Katie and Matt Riley will be delivering this final session and concluding this phase of the project.

A snapshot of feedback in Kent shows the power of face-to-face disability awareness training led by the people who live with or have a disability.

“The strongest point of the training was the personal insight and the stories.”

“ l learned today how important it is to make things as easy as possible for disabled visitors and their families.”

“The most important thing I have taken away with me today is to ask “What can I do for you?”

“Learning from first-hand experience is invaluable. Now I really, really understand that your experience starts way before you even get here.”

“Our welcoming is going to be even more welcoming.”

“I now have the confidence to ask the person what their access needs are and if there is anything I can do to meet those needs.”

“I am definitely going to make sure that we improve our website and I have learned today how important the pre-planning and information is.”

“Don’t pigeon-hole people. Ask the local community what it is they want.”

“ Now we have a greater understanding of what it takes to go through each day. It is my responsibility to make sure that the trip goes as good as it possibly can and is as relaxing and stress free as possible.

“I am going to make sure that our website is much more family-friendly with more pictures and imagery, better worded and more appealing.”

“I learned today that we are only a small part of the whole visitor experience and that the very tiny details are the things that can make a big difference.”

“You don’t need to spend a lot of money – it is much more than putting a lift in. It doesn’t have to be a huge outlay, increasing business and revenue can be achieved with a very small investment.”

The training modules covered in the one-day course was jam-packed with the latest information on Accessible Tourism, legislation found with the Equality Act 2010, customer service tips and action planning support – all delivered by inspirational trainers with personal insight and expertise on the subject.

Well done to The Accessible Training Company and Access Solutions for coming together with the team at Visits Unlimited and putting together an excellent course for the programme.

Huge thanks to Ross Caladine and Hannah at VisitEngland, Brian Seaman for all the prior work including access statement audits of the businesses signed up, each of the seven ‘Destination lead’ project managers and the businesses that have taken part.

Well done to Katie also. You will be able to reacquaint with your family again after the final session!