accessible town

Access Audits: A Real-World Approach to Improving Accessibility. The Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) in Halifax

20 October 2024
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog

Access Audits: A Real-World Approach to Improving Accessibility

Access Audits play a vital role in identifying and resolving accessibility challenges in various buildings and spaces. Recently, I conducted an audit at the Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) offices in Halifax. Despite being a key source of funding for community work, the building presented significant accessibility issues. As I stood outside with two colleagues, clipboards and tape measures in hand, I couldn’t help but think how often such problems occur. You might wonder, “Why move into offices that are clearly inaccessible?”—but my job starts when improvements are needed.

Tackling the Challenges

We started by measuring everything: the height of the steps, the path length, and the distance to the pavement. It was obvious right away that the three high steps leading to the entrance were a major issue. A simple ramp seemed like an easy solution, but given the height and short path, any ramp meeting accessibility standards would extend into the road. “You would need sets of traffic lights to use it safely,” I explained, highlighting that this wasn’t a feasible option. There was also the practical concern of where to store such a ramp and who would manage it.

Electric lifts were another idea, but they had their own drawbacks. They would be expensive, look out of place, and could potentially compromise the building’s listed status. “You can’t even fix a screw into these steps,” I reminded the team. To make things more complicated, the building was rented, not owned by CFFC, meaning we had to deal with the landlord as well as the building’s listed status. This combination has often caused projects to fail in the past.

Finding Practical Solutions

After discussing various options, we realised that a dog-leg ramp would be the most effective solution. Placed to the side of the path, the ramp could double back on itself and wouldn’t interfere with the road. It could even be built from wood, like the decking seen everywhere these days. We suggested moving one large edging stone to allow level access onto the ramp. The stone could easily be stored and replaced if the ramp was removed.

While we were considering these options, a constable briefly interrupted us, investigating a disturbance from the previous week—thankfully unrelated to our audit! Once we finished, I returned to my car. A local kindly offered to help me pack my wheelchair, but his final comment, asking for “a couple of quid,” left me reflecting on whether it was a sign of the times, or the result of the government’s actions. Watch this space!

Why Access Audits Matter

Access Audits do more than just identify problems. They provide practical, tailored solutions that consider the unique challenges of each building. Whether dealing with listed buildings, rental properties, or logistical challenges, audits like this one ensure that organisations can make informed decisions. Improving accessibility benefits everyone in the community.

For more information on how Access Audits can help your organisation, feel free to contact us today.

Visit the CFFC website here:- https://cffc.co.uk

Contact us to talk about your disability access audit Click Here

Access Audits at Foundry Street Community Centre: Enhancing Accessibility in Sowerby Bridge

13 August 2024
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog

Access Audits at Foundry Street Community Centre: Enhancing Accessibility in Sowerby Bridge

Conducting access audits is essential for improving accessibility in community spaces. Recently, I was asked to advise on increasing access at the Foundry Street Community Centre in Sowerby Bridge. This charming centre, spread over three floors, offers a variety of activities, but only two floors are currently accessible. My visit highlighted the importance of thorough access audits, especially in areas with challenging geography like this part of Yorkshire.

Upon arrival, I immediately encountered a familiar issue: the steep gradients. Parking was a challenge, as my wheelchair threatened to careen down the road before I could get into it. In such cases, it’s invaluable to have assistance, but I managed to find a reasonably level spot in the shared car park, though it was far from ideal. The uneven surface, a mix of concrete and tarmac, suggested that a building had been roughly demolished here. Nevertheless, it did the job.

The local geography, while challenging, did offer a surprising benefit. The steep paths allowed me to enter the building on the Ground floor from one side and the Basement from the other. This unexpected accessibility feature is a reminder that access audits should consider all aspects of a location’s environment.

The main accessibility issue

The main accessibility issue, however, was reaching the First floor. This large, uncluttered space is ideal for sporting activities but inaccessible due to the defunct stair lift. The Centre had explored refurbishing it, but the costs were prohibitive. I advised against it anyway, as old stair lifts are notorious for being slow, obstructive, and prone to breakdowns. Moreover, they often create unnecessary complications, such as forgetting who has the key.

After taking careful measurements, I recommended installing a through-floor lift, which could fit within the stairwell. If that proves unfeasible, an external lift could be an option, though it would require additional considerations like weather protection and security. Ultimately, expert consultation will determine the best solution.

This experience at Foundry Mill underscores the importance of access audits in creating truly inclusive spaces. By addressing these challenges thoughtfully, community centres like this one can ensure that everyone has equal access to their facilities.

Visit the Foundry Street Community Centre Website Here

Contact us to talk about your disability access audit Click Here

Latest audit from Chris Cammiss: Disability Access Audits: Ensuring Inclusivity in Sports Centres

16 July 2024
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Categories: Accessibility, Blog

Ensuring Inclusion for All: Disability Access Audits in Calderdale Sports Centres

One of my most recent pieces of work was a survey of a sample of Calderdale Sports Centres. I was asked to visit Brighouse, Sowerby Bridge and Todmorden.

First impressions were very positive. Each venue boasted a high number of visitors engaged in various activities. However, conducting disability access audits revealed both strengths and weaknesses… Lots of swimming, lots of Gym work and a range of outdoor sports as well.

I’ve done partial audits on each one, but now need a final check at each one –  questions to be answered, pictures to take. I thought that would be relatively simple, but our glorious summer weather has other ideas!

Overcoming Obstacles: A Steep Path and a Faulty Lift

There have been some highs and some lows. A steep path outside Brighouse – the route to crazy golf and other sports – was particularly challenging. A simple, innocuous, flagged path at first sight, but very energy-sapping in use. Simple to run down, but very tough on return. The onset of yet another shower didn’t help, but I was rescued (didn’t need it really) by an athlete from the Gym who had seen me slowing down and rushed out to help!

The lift at Brighouse saw me coming. I checked I was OK to use it at Reception and was assured it was working well. Pressed the button and it came immediately, door opened, I got in, pressed button and door closed. Pressed button again and door opened!. Repeated several times. No joy. Got out, started again, no joy. Found a member of staff – oh, that happens sometimes, leave it to me. Fine, but 10 minutes later no result. So part of my return trip will be to see it in action again. (I blame Brexit for delaying delivery of parts from Europe).

But it was brilliant to see the lines of school pupils, beautifully organised by their teachers, taking their turns in Todmorden’s pool as they tried to swim a full length without outside intervention.

And I was particularly impressed by the system at Sowerby Bridge where a disabled swimmer could be changed, then hoisted in privacy in the changing rooms, then transported to poolside, then into the water. I must try that soon!

Global Perspectives on Accessibility

That reminds me – have I told you about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland? No?  Future blog for definite! Hot springs, beautiful swimming with glaciers in sight and cocktails to hand, and a great system for disabled swimmers!

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Looking Ahead: Continuous Improvement Through Disability Access Audits

These audits serve as a springboard for continuous improvement. By identifying and addressing accessibility challenges, Calderdale Sports Centres can ensure everyone enjoys an inclusive and enriching sporting experience.

Back with more adventures soon,

Chris

Here’s a link to Calderdale’s Sports Centres Website:- Click Here

To talk to us Disability Access Audits 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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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

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.