accessible destination

My visit to Shibden Park on 10th June 2021

21 June 2021
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, Calderdale Project Update

Shibden Park Accessibility Review: A Day with Calderdale Community Transport

Aisha Mir explores Shibden Park accessibility with Calderdale Community Transport

A trip to Shibden Park with Calderdale Community Transport turned into a valuable discussion about accessibility for wheelchair users, parents with buggies, and visitors with visual impairments.

Meeting the Park Managers

Chris Hancox and Steve Mitchel from Calderdale Community Transport provided a smooth pick-up and drop-off for Aisha and her 2-year-old son. While a slight delay due to car seat safety checks meant missing a full introduction with park manager Mark Spencer, the other park managers were incredibly welcoming.

Accessibility Concerns Raised

The group discussed accessibility challenges faced by wheelchair users, blind people, elderly visitors, and those with prams. Issues included:

  • Pot holes and uneven surfaces throughout the park
  • A dangerous bus stop and uneven road leading to the lower car park
  • Lack of accessible alternative routes around historical areas
  • Difficulty navigating the park with a pram due to steep inclines and loose surfaces like sand (used for filming purposes)

Positive Aspects and Requests for Improvement

Aisha acknowledges the park’s beauty and appreciates the improvements made, particularly the accessible path around the upper park. However, she emphasizes the need for further accessibility measures, such as:

  • An accessible path alongside the park train route for safe pedestrian movement
  • Improved signage throughout the park for better navigation, especially for first-time visitors
  • Inclusion of a changing place facility within the park toilets

A Day Filled with Connection and Hope

Despite the accessibility concerns, Aisha highlights the positive aspects of the visit:

  • Enjoying the beautiful weather
  • Reconnecting with friends after the COVID-19 lockdown
  • Indulging in a delicious mocha at the cafe

The group’s valuable discussions and suggestions for improvement leave Aisha hopeful for positive changes at Shibden Park.

Find out more from the Shibden Park Website Click 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
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.

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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….?)

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So, the first year of the brilliant Accessible Calderdale project is already over! Bring on the second!

10 January 2020
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog, Calderdale Project Update

Discovering Accessible Calderdale

Accessible Calderdale has been consistently absorbing and incredibly varied this year. Massive plans, big ideas, and selfless individuals are making remarkable strides towards inclusivity and accessibility. My role as an Access Auditor has allowed me to witness these efforts firsthand and support numerous voluntary projects. Hopefully, my advice, backed by funding from the Community Foundation for Calderdale, will help these projects realise their dreams. Here’s a summary of the high points, interesting people, and fascinating twists and turns from the past year.

Memorable Audits and Projects

Puzzle Hall Inn in Sowerby Bridge

One of the most memorable experiences was visiting the Puzzle Hall Inn in Sowerby Bridge. The sheer excitement of being rolled backwards down a 45° slope in my wheelchair to see the progress will linger long in my mind. This build looks like a fantastic idea, and I can’t wait to attend a concert there when it opens. It promises to be a great accessible venue.

Fire and Water Renovation

Just a little further down the road, the ambitious Fire and Water renovation project is underway. This massive endeavour doesn’t seem to faze anyone involved. I was particularly fascinated by the basement, currently storing the Rush Cart and the Golden Goose plus eggs. The dedication and hard work behind this project are truly inspiring.

Community Engagements and Unique Experiences

Cornholme Community Area

The Cornholme Community area offered the largest selection of teas and infusions I’ve ever seen in one spot. It’s a testament to the community’s vibrant and welcoming spirit.

Sowood Preschool

Sowood Preschool stood out with some of the nicest kids I’ve met in a long while. They were so concerned about my ability to access their playground but found an alternative way to ensure I could join them. Their kindness was heartwarming.

Luddenden Foot

Luddenden Foot provided the best tea and toast amidst their vibrant playgroup. It’s small gestures like these that highlight the community’s commitment to inclusivity and hospitality.

Embracing the Great Outdoors

Cromwell Bottom Canal Walk

Exploring the Calderdale countryside was another highlight. The canal walk at Cromwell Bottom and the site of a proposed viewing platform, now under construction, was a memorable experience. Nature’s beauty coupled with efforts to make it accessible is commendable.

Jerusalem Farm

Witnessing kingfishers at Jerusalem Farm after a glorious walk was another standout moment. The serene environment and ongoing projects to enhance accessibility make it a must-visit spot.

Beechwood Park and Riding School for the Disabled

Planning a sensory garden at Beechwood Park and petting the horses at the Riding School for the Disabled were other notable experiences. These projects exemplify how Accessible Calderdale is making the outdoors more inclusive.

Unexpected and Delightful Discoveries

St Augustine’s Centre

An unexpected curry at St Augustine’s Centre was a delightful surprise. The centre’s dedication to accessibility and inclusivity is truly impressive.

Blackley and Wainsgate Chapels

The beautiful Baptist Chapels at Blackley and Wainsgate were other gems. Their historical significance and efforts towards accessibility make them important cultural landmarks.

Skillshop Hydrotherapy Pool

The brilliant hydrotherapy pool amongst the fascinating outbuildings at the Skillshop was another highlight. It’s a fantastic facility that significantly contributes to accessibility in Calderdale.

Connecting with the Community

Halifax Minster and The Hive

Discussing ancestry at Halifax Minster and sharing hippy reminiscences at The Hive over a cup of tea were other enriching experiences. These interactions highlighted the community’s inclusive and welcoming nature.

Overgate Hospice Boutique

A period of rest and relaxation in the sophisticated Overgate Hospice Boutique with another cup of tea was the perfect end to a fulfilling day. The boutique’s serene environment is a testament to Accessible Calderdale’s commitment to inclusivity.

Looking Forward to 2020

So, what will 2020 bring? Whatever it is, it will be unexpected and brilliant, showcasing the best of human nature. I’ll keep you informed as Accessible Calderdale continues to evolve and inspire.

Next up, I’m heading to Rokt in Brighouse to advise on their rock-climbing facility. Rock climbing and wheelchair accessibility – really? Watch this space!

Chris Cammiss

Access Auditor

To the Mayor of London from Nadia Clarke

3 January 2020
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog

Improving Accessible Tourism: Lessons from London’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks

A Disappointing Start: Navigating Inaccessible Information

Accessible tourism aims to make travel experiences inclusive for everyone, but sometimes falls short, as I discovered during the 2019 New Year’s Eve Fireworks in London. As a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, I booked a spot in the accessible area, a dream event that came with significant expenses, including hotel and transportation for myself and my two PAs. The event information provided was insufficient. The map was not detailed, making it difficult to navigate the area. The tickets indicated “From Waterloo,” but lacked clarity on what this meant, especially considering the tube’s inaccessibility and crowding issues on New Year’s Eve. Clearer, more detailed information is crucial for ensuring accessible tourism truly meets the needs of all travelers.

The Struggle for Basic Facilities

Upon arrival, the lack of accessible facilities was immediately apparent. Arriving slightly early, I found no nearby toilets and had to use facilities at St Thomas’ Hospital, which added stress. Event security denied access to on-site facilities upon arrival, exacerbating the situation. Once inside, the portaloos were substandard: they lacked lighting, toilet roll, and sinks. These conditions posed significant health risks for both me and my PAs. Accessible tourism must prioritize providing suitable, hygienic facilities to ensure a stress-free and safe experience for all.

Fireworks watched by the river Thames by Nadia Clarke
Fireworks watched by the river Thames by Nadia Clarke

Navigation Challenges and Lack of Support

The unclear directions continued to hinder our experience. Due to inadequate information and road closures, what was supposed to be a seven-minute walk to the viewing area turned into an hour and a half ordeal. Staff in the area often lacked maps or radios, raising serious safety concerns in case of an emergency. For accessible tourism to be effective, event organizers need to ensure comprehensive information and adequate support, particularly in high-traffic, high-stress situations like major public events.

Fireworks watched by the river Thames by Nadia Clarke
Fireworks watched by the river Thames by Nadia Clarke

Inadequate Viewing Area

The designated accessible viewing area fell significantly short of expectations. Placed next to the London Eye, it provided a poor vantage point for the fireworks, which are displayed on or in front of the Eye. This left us with a view obstructed by the very structure we came to see illuminated. With only one accessible viewing area available, this placement was far from ideal. Accessible tourism should include multiple, well-thought-out options to ensure equal enjoyment for all attendees. For instance, an additional viewing area near the Houses of Parliament could offer a much better experience.

Conclusion

Accessible tourism requires thoughtful planning and execution to meet the needs of all travellers. The issues faced during London’s 2019 New Year’s Eve Fireworks highlight significant areas for improvement. From clearer information and adequate facilities to proper navigation support and better viewing options, there’s a pressing need for more inclusive and comprehensive strategies. Ensuring true accessibility in tourism not only reflects the values of equality but also enhances the experience for everyone involved.

Yours Sincerely,
Nadia Clarke

How accessible is your business/venue?

22 July 2019
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog

Disability Access Training. How accessible is your business/venue?

Are you meeting your legislative requirements?

Did you know that being accessible can help your business grow?

Visits Unlimited is a Halifax-based organisation working with attractions and businesses locally, regionally, and nationally. We collaborate with colleagues in the tourism industry to help reduce the physical and non-physical barriers often experienced by disabled people.

Also we offer a range of professional and friendly services to help you become more inclusive and disabled-friendly. We also aim to improve your customer service through our Access Audits, specialist advice, and Disability Training.

All trainers have lived experience of disability and have worked across the country delivering training to a wide range of organisations for many years. We are members of the England Inclusive Tourism Action Group.

OUR ACCESS AUDITS

With the help and support of Chris Cammiss, our Access Auditor, Specialist Advisor, and Disability Trainer, Chris will visit your premises to carry out an access audit. He will then write a report on what you are doing well and what you can improve on.

Did you know that nearly 1 in 5 people in the UK are disabled? That could be a large percentage of your target market. Ensuring you provide suitable facilities and services for disabled people should be high on your priority list.

It doesn’t have to cost the world to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone. Sometimes making small adjustments can make a big difference. Good customer service is priceless!

AWARENESS RAISING AND OUR TRAINING

Attitude towards disabled customers is everything. We can deliver training to members of your staff. It’s as easy as starting with a smile!

“People will forget what you said. They will forget what you did. But they will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

We run training and access audit programmes across England. Our clients include the National Trust, English Heritage, countryside attractions, football and cricket grounds, large tourist attractions, small businesses, retailers, theatres, music venues, museums, and hotels.

Providing the best service for disabled people will benefit all of your customers. Feeling welcomed goes hand in hand with meeting current legislation. Attractions focusing on disabled customers see rapid growth in their customer base, revenues, and profit. This opportunity provides businesses and attractions with a competitive advantage.

Visits Unlimited promotes the Purple Pound. We want you to take advantage of bringing in more income and attracting extra visitors and local people to your business.

“When everyone is welcome, anything is possible. Businesses that cater to the needs of all customers are most likely not only to survive but to flourish.”

THE PURPLE POUND

Disabled people contribute £12bn to the UK tourism industry1; a market which no business can afford to ignore. Research shows businesses can potentially benefit from longer stays and more spend from the group where a member of the party has a disability. Watch the animation and get inspired to unlock the purple pound.  https://www.barclayscorporate.com/insights/industry-expertise/unlock-the-purple-pound/

1Great Britain Tourism Survey 2015”

OUR HISTORY IN CALDERDALE

Visits Unlimited ran the Accessible Hebden project thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) in 2015. Working with disabled people, we completed over 40 access audits and surveys on small businesses to support them in becoming more accessible.

This project is now embedded in local strategic work. The Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum continues to roll out the work and be a key player in new planning and designs.

“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 changing the door knob on the toilet facilities, which we never thought about.” –

Pennine Heritage.

OUR CURRENT WORK IN CALDERDALE

Accessible Calderdale is building on the successful work in Hebden across the whole of Calderdale together with Disability Partnership Calderdale. Our aim is to promote Calderdale as a place that welcomes all people and offers an accessible and inclusive area for those living, working and visiting here.

Free audits and training are available to the voluntary and community sector thanks to funding from CFFC and we are offering all businesses a discounted rate within Calderdale for an access audit and training.

“The audit actually exceeded our expectations. Chris was very encouraging, straight-talking about areas where change is needed and really positive about the nature reserve as a destination for days out. He even pointed out assets we didn’t know we had!”. Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve

The project has developed two working groups which meet regularly ‘How to get there’ with a focus on accessible transport, and ‘Places to go’ which focuses on accessible tourism, local events, organisations, the countryside, small and large businesses throughout Calderdale.

The groups are integral to the project and working to ensure that we can promote Calderdale as an Accessible Destination.

ACDAF (Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum)

Visits Unlimited have established the Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum who are a group of disabled people and those with lived experience of disability who will be setting the priorities, goals and working closely with services and organisations who can make a difference and improve the access needs of local people and tourists.

For more information on our access audits and costs for businesses please contact lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk

Or, complete an online Expression of Interest form – Click Here

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 26th 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

Making Hebden Bridge into an Accessible Destination

7 September 2016
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Categories: Accessible Hebden Bridge, Blog

Creating an accessible destination.

When you have a beautiful and sensory rich town like Hebden Bridge we want people to come and experience it. We know that when people enjoy it they then share it.  It isn’t easy for everyone and Visits Unlimited have been invited to support the local community and business to make Hebden Bridge a more accessible destination. We want to make Hebden Bridge an even greater experience for everyone because we know Hebden Bridge cares.

Improving accessibility improves the economy.

Saturday 3rd September was the launch of our new project #AccessibleHebden at the Hebden Bridge Town Hall.  We are truly delighted to be working in close partnership with the ‘Hebden Bridge Partnership’ and Calderdale Community Foundation. We will be working together over the next 6 months to help make Hebden Bridge an attraction for everyone to enjoy.

As a national Community Interest Company we have delivered both disability awareness and customer service training across the country for a number of years to many small businesses, venues, attractions, museums and heritage sites within the tourism sector.

We know that supporting a venue to become accessible to a wide range of impairments is much more than doorways and ramps.  It is about a positive can-do attitude; finding solutions to participation and inclusion; and imbedding a warm welcome approach throughout the organisation, its staff and volunteers.

 

What are the benefits of becoming a more Accessible Destination

More than one in six people in England and Wales having an ‘activity limiting’ health problem or disability. British and international visitors from this market segment currently spend over £3 billion on overnight tourism trips in England each year and UK disabled people spend up to £12bn on trips out this is especially relevant for businesses. In short, improving your accessibility could improve your business. Being an Accessible Destination will raise the profile of Hebden Bridge through social media and will really put you on the map of places that are going that are going that extra mile and are welcoming to people with a range of impairments.

Long term vision

It also goes beyond being good for business. It supports your own members of staff/volunteers who may themselves have a disability or one of their friends or family. The Hebden Bridge and Calder Valley community will hugely benefit, as will the elderly and families with buggies chance we have placed a community focus on this project.

What will businesses gain?

There are three aspects all businesses need to address to provide access for all:

  • Customer service and training – being disability aware with the right attitude and confidence to serve all customers
  • Information and marketing – providing detailed information on the accessibility of your facilities and services and making this information easy to find
  • Physical facilities – making reasonable adjustments to buildings and facilities so they are easy for everyone to enter and move around

 

The cost of becoming an Accessible Destination

It may be surprising to know that some of challenges can be resolved in a low cost and creative way and this we have great experience with.

Each organisation will be able to apply for a grant of around £2000 to help with some of their challenges around meeting the needs of not only disabled tourists but also their families, their friends and of course local disabled people.  The results of creating these changes will affect the whole community and the results can only be beneficial.

Do you want your local business to support your town to be an Accessible Destination?

If the answer is yes then please contact myself; Katie Clarke by email; Katie@visitsunlimited.org.uk for a copy of the expression of interest for the FREE Access Audit.

Or you can pick up a hard copy at the Watermark or the Town Hall in Hebden Bridge and return it there or post it to:

Katie Clarke

Visits Unlimited

15 Savile Park Gardens

Halifax

HX1 2XL

Our auditor Chris Cammiss will be meeting many people on his travels whilst doing our Access Audits. He will become a familiar face in the community.         Chris is a very experienced auditor and will offer practical and reasonable recommendations for you.

Calderdale Community Foundation will administer the grants and their aim is to make this as easy as possible. What this means is there are no long-winded forms to fill consequently this making it an easy process.  Businesses and organisations can give a phone call to the Foundation and someone will help with the process.

 

Thank you

We are pleased to give something back to the Hebden Bridge community. Each member of our team were involved in supporting friends and the community during the boxing day floods 2015.

We love the motto of the community and the Watermark Fund. We are very proud to be working with so many good people including the new Disability Access Reference Group, Hebden Royd Town Council’s Mayor Tony Hodgins, the Neighbourhood Planning Committee, and businesses, organisations, venues and local people.