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

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.

The Space @ Field Lane image of dining area

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.

The Space @ Field Lane image of toilet 1

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.

The Space @ Field Lane image of toilet 2

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 Space @ Field Lane image meeting space

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”……..

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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Centre Vale Park Todmorden looks like a great place to visit after lockdown.

Exploring Accessible Beauty: Centre Vale Park in Todmorden

Accessible tourism is all about ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonders of travel and exploration. While scenic locations are often the highlight of any trip, accessibility considerations can sometimes be an afterthought. Recently, I came across Centre Vale Park in Todmorden, and it piqued my interest for all the right reasons.

A Haven for All in Todmorden

While I haven’t had the chance to visit Centre Vale Park myself yet, based on my online research, it appears to be a haven for accessible tourism. Spanning an impressive 33 hectares, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you seek peaceful woodland walks or open green spaces for picnics and play, Centre Vale Park seems to cater to all interests.

Promising Features for Accessible Tourism

The park’s vast size itself translates to ample space for leisurely exploration at your own pace. Additionally, the presence of features like woodland walks with potentially well-maintained paths suggests easy navigation for those with mobility limitations. Open parkland often provides accessible routes for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, further enhancing the park’s inclusivity.

Playful Fun for All Ages

Centre Vale Park’s play areas hold the promise of inclusive fun for all ages. While specific details about the accessibility of play equipment are unavailable online, the park’s overall focus on inclusivity makes it hopeful that the play areas cater to children with various needs. The inclusion of an under-12s roadway adds another exciting dimension for children, offering a safe space to learn and practice essential skills.

Planning Your Accessible Visit to Centre Vale Park

Once the current restrictions are lifted, Centre Vale Park is definitely a place to add to your accessible travel itinerary. To ensure a smooth visit, consider researching the park’s accessibility features in more detail. This might involve contacting the park authorities or checking their website for information on accessible parking, restrooms, and designated accessible routes.

External Resource for Accessible Travel

For further guidance on accessible travel planning, you can refer to the informative resources provided by the National Centre for Accessible Travel National Centre for Accessible Travel (NCAT).

Centre Vale Park, with its seemingly inclusive design and diverse offerings, promises an enjoyable escape for visitors seeking accessible adventures in Todmorden. So, why not plan your trip and experience the beauty of this park for yourself?

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

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

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?

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 Free Access Audits and Training to the Voluntary Sector

Is your organisation in Calderdale looking to improve accessibility?

Visits Unlimited is offering free access audits to all eligible voluntary sector and community groups in Calderdale who have submitted an Expression of Interest form.

With years of experience training staff across various sectors, including tourism, business, and statutory services, our trainers are experts in creating inclusive environments. As part of the England Inclusive Tourism Action Group alongside Visit England, we are committed to improving accessibility for everyone.

What does this mean for you?

Our free access audits will provide your organisation with valuable insights into how accessible your services and facilities are to people with disabilities. We will work closely with you to identify areas for improvement and provide practical recommendations.

By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors and service users.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make a difference!

Recent feedback from our local training session

“ Thanks Chris and Katie for sharing your personal experiences to help us understand more about disability”

“I can use what I learned in everyday aspects of my life – professional/parish and volunteering”

“Very informing and eye-opening.  Thank you”.

Free Access Audits

  • Would you like to develop your community group venue to become more accessible to people with disabilities?
  • Are you considering re-locating your group and would like to ensure the proposed venue is inclusive and accessible?

Chris Cammiss is our skilled and professional auditor, trainer and disability advisor. he works is an auditor for a variety of venues including large tourist attractions, stately homes and castles, health settings, large businesses, transport, shops, hotels, outdoor venues and small organisations.

Chris provides a full access survey with a report a recommendation. Groups will have the opportunity to apply for funding through the Community Foundation for Calderdale to support recommendations for access and inclusion.

Feedback from recent audits
“So helpful”, “fabulous audit”, “looking promising with the funding from Community Foundation”, “invaluable”.

Contact Lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk 07596 707795

The Accessible Calderdale Access Audit Expresssion Of Interest Form is downloadable by clicking this link.

Email the completed form to lorraine@visitsunlimited.org.uk or post to: 15 Savile Park Gardens, HALIFAX, Yorkshire, HX1 2XL.

Chris, collaboration, great folk & the lion’s den.

Longleat, where change is welcomed.

Access Audits, adventures… I went back down to Longleat on Tuesday to see Simon Townsend and his team from Cheddar Gorge and Longleat to discuss my two earlier Access Reports.

After enjoying a lovely journey there I was quickly deflated when I found the main Entrance completely blocked off! Proper electronic barriers, clear signage, the venue was clearly closed! Luckily I could see a distant Land Rover parked amongst the trees so I knew some sort of access must be possible but how, where? Being the consummate professional I am I had arrived without Simon’s number or indeed the contact details of anyone relevant to the venue!

Eventually I started to think more clearly, looked around more carefully and found “the button”. Quick press and I was through to Security and the barriers soon began to move aside.

After parking, one more random question and I was directed to the Estate Office. Jump forward a few minutes and now I’m back in the real business world. Simon collected his team, a suitable room was located, coffee was brewed and off we went.

What a positive meeting! Everyone was on the same page and very keen to progress. Lovely to encounter so much enthusiasm. It’s always a good sign when everyone is discussing issues without mentioning costs. Of course costs will be relevant later but it never blocked or influenced a discussion here.

I was particularly relieved to find how much common ground there was. I had indicated several areas in my reports where I wanted to see immediate improvement. You never know how well

Access Audits: A Positive Experience at Longleat

Introduction

In this post, we’ll delve into the world of access audits and share a recent positive experience at Longleat. As a venue committed to inclusivity, Longleat has taken significant strides to ensure that everyone can enjoy their visit, regardless of their abilities.

The Audit Process: A Collaborative Approach

Our recent access audit at Longleat was a collaborative effort between our team and the dedicated staff at the venue. Together, we conducted a thorough evaluation of the site’s accessibility features, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Positive Outcomes and Future Plans

We were delighted to discover several positive aspects of Longleat’s accessibility efforts. The venue has implemented a range of measures to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including:

  • Clear signage and wayfinding: Easy-to-read signage and clear pathways help visitors navigate the site.
  • Accessible facilities: Longleat offers accessible restrooms and parking spaces.
  • Staff training: The staff at Longleat are well-trained in providing assistance to visitors with disabilities.

Moreover, the venue is committed to ongoing improvement and has plans to implement additional accessibility measures in the future.

Conclusion

Our experience at Longleat underscores the importance of access audits in creating inclusive spaces. By conducting regular audits and implementing necessary improvements, venues can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy their visit. We commend Longleat for their dedication to accessibility and look forward to seeing their continued progress.

A great day and a very positive conclusion to my work which had started back in November. Katie’s training is yet to come and then we’ll know more about how to carry this great collaboration forward. Watch this space!

Chris

Talk To Us About Access Audits

ACCESSIBLE CALDERDALE PROJECT

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

My day out at Longleat Safari Park

Day one was Chedder Gorge, Day 2 Longleat.

Driving through the grounds for the first time, my first impression was how fabulous the house actually appears. After parking up, I planned my day to include all the major attractions. There’s so much here to do and see, everyone will find something to enjoy.

Staff were incredible again and lots of thought has already gone into improving access.

The House itself was a delight. As often happens the dedicated disabled entrance takes you through several rooms the general public may never see but then joins the public flow along the tourist route through the house. Volunteer guides are in every room and they are friendly, helpful and clearly love what they do, they are all dressed as 20’s flappers and full of great information.

Longleat outside

Outside there are formal grounds – all accessible, endless playgrounds, a fully accessible train taking you around the grounds so you can catch your breath, even an accessible cruise around the huge lake.

There are many eating places and shops – again all very accessible indeed.

Most of the rides are accessible.

The only downside in my opinion was the Adventure Castle children’s playground. Stunning looking space, castle, drawbridge, rope walks from tree to tree, aerial walkways, but all currently inaccessible for many with mobility issues.

But, back to the park and the famous Safari itself. If you have your own transport it all works brilliantly – you just drive through at your own pace. If not, catch the fully accessible bus. Stop off at the African Village, all very accessible, and spend as much time as you wish.

It’s all around you – elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions, flamingos..

Throw in the fireworks and light show after dark – what’s not to like?

It was a challenging trip but well worth the effort.

Longleat Safari Park and Cheddar Gorge 

Longleat Safari Park and Cheddar Gorge

So, who’s up for some extreme tourism? 

My latest escapade for visits unlimited was to audit Longleat Safari Park and sister attraction Cheddar Gorge.  

Some simple cave exploration in the Gorge and dancing with lions at Longleat – no problem at all for a wheelchair user! 

I have to admit I was intrigued. I couldn’t believe my luck. How romantic, how interesting, but how much of the caves would I see? How would I get around the Safari Park? 

Well, I found the whole experience fascinating and much more accessible than you might have thought. With the help of some very well-motivated staff I had a great time. Both sites were an absolute pleasure to survey. Yes, I saw plenty of features that could be improved but the sites are well worth a visit now.  

Day One – Cheddar Gorge.  

The attraction in essence consists of several caves developed in Victorian times as a tourist venue. With an introductory film show, a modern museum, walks and viewpoints and several shops, there’s a full day out here. 

After purchasing tickets, see the introductory film. This beautifully sets the scene with colourful history, wildlife, flora, what to visit and what can be managed. 

The main cave – Gough’s Cave – after the man who made a public attraction out of it is unfortunately inaccessible to wheelchair users and anyone who can’t negotiate four sloping steps but is very rewarding for anyone else.

Staff helpfully bumped me down (not for the general public) so I did see most of what is on offer. If my recommendations are followed the access will be quickly improved. 

A long tunnel carries you into the rock – Cheddar Man, unique rock formations, twists and turns, audio description points – very special indeed. 

After Gough visit the very accessible Museum of Pre-History. Small enough not to be daunting or boring but large enough to house a huge array of exhibits all displayed with imagination.

The fun never stopped

I was lucky enough to be accompanied by an enthusiastic school party who were greatly entertained by the Stone Age re-enactor who dressed them in animal skins, told them about skinning a rabbit and finally showed them how to start a fire with just a few sticks – hugely impressive!  

My final, and possibly favourite destination was Cox’s Cave. This is a network of several inter-connected chambers. Complex and challenging for some with mobility or visual impairments it rewards those who can manage handsomely.

A brilliant film show showing the development of Early Man in the area is displayed on the raw walls of each chamber, carrying you through his history, changing environment and the animals he hunted. Sound and lights enhance this extremely entertaining  production. Different episodes take you through the cave complex.

Mindful of my mobility issues, staff made sure I saw as much as possible by letting me in the front and back entrances. Nothing was too much trouble. 

A day with Visit County Durham and promoting Access for All

County Durham, a beautiful place.

We left Halifax at 645am heading for the motorway and County Durham on Tuesday 30th October 2018.   We had only been driving for 20 mins when there was a sign on the M62 letting us know that the A1 was closed at Junctions 47 to 49. Ugh. The glorious Sat Nav re-directed us through Leeds and towards Harrogate passing various tourist attractions and venues such as Leeds Direct, the stunning Harewood House, Ripley Castle and on the road to Ripon to pick up the A1 we drove past the sign to Fountains Abbey, Lightwater Valley, Ripon Racecourse and Ripon Cathedral.

This was actually the first day of work for our new co-ordinator Lorraine who got a guided tour of North Yorkshire which she was not expecting. We were definitely going the scenic route and both cheered a sigh of relief when we finally got onto the A1.

Why were we in County Durham?

Visits Unlimited had been asked by Visit County Durham to speak at their annual Autumn Conference and to run a workshop session on Access for All alongside Michelle Gorman, Managing Director of Visit County Durham and Jane Shaw from Durham Creatives.

Lorraine and I arrived in plenty of time at the Redworth Hall Hotel for me to meet the team and the Chair Ivor Stolliday, to check over my powerpoint, enjoyed a coffee and croissant and to do a bit of networking before the event started.

We learn as much as we give.

Watching the excellent film of the City of Culture which showed the range of beautiful countryside and visitor attractions in the area sold County Durham to me! I loved the idea of Star Gazing and taking disabled people out into the open at night.   In 2019 I am booking into one of the many small hotels and BnBs in the region and heading to Durham Cathedral to meet Ivor who has promised me my own guided tour whilst going to one of the many wonderful events planned for the Durham Year of Culture!

My talk on Access for All included an overview of the numbers of disabled people in the UK, the Purple Pound and some interesting statistics from Visit England as well as some inspiring stories of good practice around the country. The message of the importance of training and good customer service came across strongly.   After a delicious lunch I ran one of three workshops each delivered 3 times to a total of 90 people. I told a story of the ups and downs of living with disability and the benefits of a day out, a short break and a night away. The participants were very proactive and there was some great ideas of how to improve their accessible and inclusive offer. The importance of good customer service and a warm welcome was highlighted again.

The Deep Blue Approach

We only went and did it again at The Deep! Accessible tourist training that really makes a difference.

When we got invited to take our training package to The Deep in Hull for the 4th year running we jumped at the chance because we know that we are about to walk into a full on day with an enthusiastic, motivated, open minded group of individuals who love what they do and are proud of what their organisation stands for.

One thing that has always stood out for me though it that they really do want to make a difference to their visitors experiences, working in teams they were proactive in their discussion, considering different visitor journeys and working through how they can support individual needs in the future.

The content that we delivered was filled with transferable skills that can be taken in on an organisational level and many staff commented in their feedback that there were skills and strategies that we passed on which they knew they could use in other areas of their lives.

Making memories

At Visits Unlimited we work hard on providing the relevant content that brings together individual organisations and the visitors who access them. It is important to us that what we deliver aligns with the values of who we are training because we know how important it is for venues and the staff working within these venues to connect with their visitors and provide the best services and days out. We pride ourselves on our training packages and what we bring to the table.

However why not read for yourself some of the amazing feedback we received from our training day a few days ago. Thank you to everyone who attended and being part of the day being filled with education, care, laughter, respect and equality.

The Deep staff feedback

“Thank you for today. This is my 3rd time doing the session and it is always a great reminder that there are amazing people in this world, doing amazing things. I hope one day we can all adopt these values in everyday life. I always learn something new. Again thank you.”

“Lovely session regarding sensitivity to various issues that may arise at the Deep and helped develop confidence regarding how to best deal with and assist people with disabilities.”

“Really enjoyed hearing about body language from Karen. Also really appreciated hearing different perspectives/discussions. You are both amazing humans!”

“Really informative course, leaving feeling a lot more aware of all disabilities. Also now may come over the awkwardness and barriers on not knowing how to ask. Thank you for your time.”

“In all honesty, I came into the building not expecting to learn anything significant. In reality I believe I have probably learned a handful of skills that will not only assist my work at the Deep but my future professional career. Thank you”

“Great day, very welcoming and open to create a great atmosphere. Very educational and worthwhile.”

“Wonderful! Thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of today’s course. Informative, balanced, and very useful. Many thank yous for sharing your experiences and expertise with us. Feel free to stay in touch.”

“Very informative. I learned so much about behaviour and communication across all abilities and levels. Karen was quite possibly one of the most engaging and interesting people I have met. Katie had such optimism and happiness about her that was infectious.”

“Very informative. Learned many new things. Interaction from both Deep members and instructors was good. Time allowance just right.”

“It’s been great to hear other’s stories about dealing with children/siblings with disabilities as well as learning about other ways to assist individuals with learning impairments and non-visible disabilities. Thank you.”

York racecourse welcomes us in.

York Racecourse this May 2018

So here I find myself driving back to God’s own country steeped in the sunshine that makes this place even more golden. I’m heading for a second spot of Disability Awareness publicity for staff at York Racecourse.

I already had high expectations after a very pleasant and welcoming session two weeks ago and I wasn’t disappointed this time either.

A very warm welcome from Sam Henderson, my presentation was already loaded for me, my coffee delivered (this is one of my essential criteria), the microphone on, all traditional technical hitches sorted and with the introduction made and off we went….

A very swift, twenty minute intro into who we are and what we do and what we could do for them. Short but plenty of connection and plenty of laughter (always a good sign), with lots of happy faces and a satisfying queue of people afterwards all with relevant questions.

Sam was very pleased indeed, said he would keep all our contact details and hoped to see us again. I’m pretty sure we will work there again in some capacity.

Also had a long conversation with another contributor who had listened to my presentation on my previous visit. He’s based at Ascot no less and thought our disability work fitted perfectly with his plans to re-vamp their accessibility provision there! We swapped contact details and made a firm commitment to meet in June after our current work is sorted. What a connection!

I’m thinking Royal Enclosure, Katie in a fancy hat…… no, no, let’s not get carried away, let’s just say the networking is going very well!

Watch this space!

So near and yet so far……..again.

I love getting out and about. It’s good for fitness, and we also live in a very beautiful country containing lots of awe-inspiring buildings. A particularly keen interest of mine is in history, so what better way to combine both passions than exploring a magnificent ancient ruin?

Just prior to the lockdown, my partner and I felt the need to get out and about and had located a suitable hotel online and so we stayed in North Yorkshire for a long weekend and made sure we thoroughly explored our surroundings. We found we weren’t far from Rievaulx Abbey (Click Here To Visit Site) which I’d heard about but never seen. The weather was decent so off we went.

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London’s Changing Places, is it changing fast enough?

London’s Changing Places, our experience

We live in Retford which has excellent rail links to London (East Coast Line). We can be in the Capital in 1hr 35 mins on the train. When we arrive our first stop is to use the fantastic Changing Places facility at Kings Cross, a pot of gold at the end of the line!

For my Son (11yrs) this facility is essential. He is a wheelchair user and unable to use a standard disabled toilet, we feel and lucky that modernisation to the station incorporated this much needed toilet. So, first impressions all good, Changing Places on arrival and a welcome feeling of inclusion, we are, after all in London!

But then its goes a bit downhill… where are all the other Changing Places toilets? How do we get from A- B? Where will we stay overnight? Will my Son cope with the Crowds? Leaving the station gives us a feeling of horrible insecurity and anxiety, visiting London can be stressful enough! If you have a family member with a disability or impairment it is very difficult.

London’s Changing Places Map

We have taken our Son twice to London, planning for these events is essential. We do a lot of research beforehand and use the Changing Places toilet map to find and access toilets (with a bench and hoist) Changing Places are disappointingly thin on the ground for this city.  At the moment Central London really only has 3 hoist assisted toilets – Tate, Parliament and Embankment.

The Embankment facility was shut on our last visit. Parliament is only accessible to visitors and the Tate, well that’s on the south bank so it is a fair trek to travel and the Art Gallery setting may not be your thing. Other stations have CP facilities but not all. There are also a few hospitals which have CP but who on earth wants to visit a hospital on a family day out in London? We see too many hospitals as is!

Our expectations of London’s Changing Places

I did expect facilities to be a little better (than where we live) in the capital but I was so wrong! We visited usual tourist hot spots, London Eye, Trafalgar Square etc. At the Natural History Museum (after searching for the accessible entrance) we were able to go in without queueing, a lot of places adopt this standard and it really benefits my son’s needs. Toileting is the problem, not just for us but for a lot of others too! Toilet queues force people to use any they can! Disabled toilets in busy tourist attractions are usually in a pretty bad state due to this and the prospect of having to change a child on the floor in one is awful.

Changing Places that give other benefits

I dislike my son being in a wheelchair all day too, Changing Places give him the opportunity to have a good stretch as well as offering him dignity to attend his toileting needs. Changing Places also allow us or a carer to use the toilet in (screened) privacy. When I am with my son I am not able to use a toilet myself as I would have to leave him outside on his own.

Changing Places would be the no 1 thing to improve our experience of London. The scope for choosing activities is narrowed and limited without these. We will visit again no doubt but with less enthusiasm. Go to Sheffield and you will find more CP per sq mile than in London…..

It was challenging

We found the bus system favourable for getting about in a wheelchair. I would be worried about using a bus now after seeing incidents and unhelpful bus drivers on social media. We didn’t use the tube (some stations don’t have lifts) We got around on wheels and on foot, very busy in some areas but that is to be expected. I read the south bank had been improved for access for wheelchairs after the Olympics in 2012. Please someone tell me/how where!! ?? We struggled to get onto the south bank via road and lifted our son up steps to Westminster Bridge to get off. It is simply exhausting trying to find everything, going off on tangents and pushing a manual wheelchair. Signage is very important.

We stayed overnight in a hotel in London, my son was a few years younger (just about managing without hoist stage) so we didn’t seek any assistive equipment, but we would need it now. We would need a hoist and bathroom/ wet room. Since then I’ve not really looked into accommodation in London so I’m not sure what it has to offer but if it’s anything like finding holiday accommodation, it’s a tiresome activity.

Booking online accommodation could be easier – especially deals, always feel we have to contact the hotel beforehand to make sure it’s accessible, we get the right room so we feel we miss out on offers.

  1. Changing Places
  2. Signage
  3. Hotel accommodation
  4. Online central website for information (rather than looking at lots of different websites)

Our energetic, detailed and tireless planning continues for family trips away and days out but the more we come together and support each other then maybe it makes things easier and we can get more changed in the bigger picture for all of us.

Thank you for reading,

Alison Beevers and family

Training in Birmingham

We’re on the move and training in Birmingham

We’re training in Birmingham, yes we’re getting more and more out there and taking the voice and needs of our community with us.

From its bustling high streets, the famous Bullring, the beautiful squares and wonderful fountains; Birmingham City is a beautiful place to visit. Whatever your enjoyment it is an energetic city that caters for most and we were over the moon to be invited to support Birmingham City to raise awareness of accessibility with our training.

Our wonderful Chris spent the day training in and with Birmingham’s Football Association, this is the body who co-ordinate all of the junior/non-professional teams across the city. This is such a great organisation and is responsible for a huge number of teams and we were thrilled to be a part of it’s training and development to create even more inclusion.

So, Chris arrived and before his coat was off there was a coffee in his hand; they clearly know how to win Chris over and it was all great from then on.

Chris was there to support their development with an audit of the grounds, building and accessibility points as well as the actual staff training. Chris is great at what he does but thrives on the enthusiasm of staff being trained and he wasn’t disappointed today with great questions, great debates and lots of exploring current knowledge and absorbing new information.

From Chris’s point of view; “The delegates were incredibly well motivated. All already had specific roles such as safe guarding, mentoring, inclusion, diversity and so on, but all were keen to know more. Very positive vibe throughout, a long busy day but I felt incredibly well-supported and I’ve received great feedback since. “

But of course none of this training can and will happen for us without the tireless work of Katie Clarke who is truly one of the most inspiring and dynamic individuals we have ever met and Katie is fantastic at organising the right audits and the right training to match the needs of the organisation. Katie just knows how to make the jigsaw pieces fit together so it all works.

We are a fortunate team who get to train individuals dedicated on creating great experiences for visitors and we thoroughly enjoy being with people who care about accessibility for all.

Keep us informed of your updates, of places you’ve visited and enjoyed and let’s keep accessibility a talking point and at the front of tourism and visitor attractions.

The Impact of our Disability Training on Venues

Disability Training Impact on Your Business

We are not your everyday run of the mill trainers and we don’t deliver a flat packed training programme which is one size fits all because we know that the one size fits all approach doesn’t work.

Firstly let’s start with the WHY behind our training and why it would be worth exploring our training packages.

The Purpose of our disability training for you

Our focus is to support venue staff at all grades and within all roles to develop confidence when working with individuals who have a disability within their teams as well as the confidence to communicate with and support visitors who come to their venues. We must recognise however that not all disabilities are visible and creating an awareness around this supports all staff to develop a positive led attitude of equality within their actions which includes inclusion and the confidence to apply these communication skills at all times.

We demystify some of the commonly held beliefs around disability, we support strategies around real situations and help your team build on a strong foundation of equality, inclusion and confidence.

The disability pound or what is commonly known as the ‘Purple Pound’ is a multimillion pound section of the UK’s spending money, why not tap into this?

This one size fits all approach? That rule has never really worked and we don’t apply it. We have a great team to tap into such as Chris, Chris will come out to you and look at and around your venue, your needs, your current strategies and policies and he’ll support and advise you on reasonable adjustments that don’t have to cost the earth, there may even be grants and funding streams for you to tap into which Chris will help you with.

You’ll learn so much from Chris, he’s got a fantastic sense of humour and a lifetime of knowledge and experience that is gold and you’ll come away from meeting him feeling inspired and surprised at just how easy some of these adjustments can really be to start with.

Then you have the fantastic training team; there’s Katie Clark who set up Visits Unlimited and has been an advocate for Disability Rights and Equality for many years. Katie has a driving passion behind her work and the energy that she invests in you and the support for your team is fantastic, you just need to read the testimonials we have to know how much Katie genuinely cares about us getting it right for you so that you get it right for your visitors.

Chris is our main Train the Trainer chap.

Then there’s Karen Hickton who is experienced in the communication and specialises in non-verbal communication for businesses as well as having personal experiences with disabilities.

We are all driven by passion for equality in this area and to support the education and awareness because; as reported by Scope there are 13.3 million people who are registered disabled within the UK and that number is growing.

The purpose of our disability training for your visitors

We want your visitors to come to your venue and have an amazing day out. A day out that’s made that bit easier because you have gone those few steps further in areas of your business such as your environment to staff training and attitudes.

As parents, family members, friends and carers of someone with a disability or those of us that have a disability ourselves; we have one of those long range methods of shouting out about somewhere we love and felt welcomed in. We spread the word faster than you can imagine because these ‘days out’ for us are precious and we come back for more only next time we bring friends.

The purpose of our disability training in alignment with the UK law

There are laws around disability, equality and provision and we want you to be aware of them, our focus is to support you to be aware and understand the disability act and equality act around your provision and support for your visitors and carers / relatives only but the information we give you is there to support you as much as your visitors.

Who are we to deliver the disability training programmes that we design?

We are professional training delivers that have come together from varying professional background with a common goal; to support more people and business to create an inclusive policy and practice and therefore help create amazing memories for all.  We are individuals who live with disabilities and we are parents and carers of individuals who also live with disabilities.

We’ve come together fusing our personal experiences with our professional skills and backgrounds to create and deliver the best most effective training programmes for venues and visitor attractions.

What we do that’s different;

We deliver a core message which brings you in alignment with government policies as well as your visitors needs but we still create our training programmes and packages around you and what you need.

How we deliver it and the fun we have in our sessions is something you’ll experience if you call us in.

Let’s continue working together in the UK to create accessibility and inclusion for all. Thank you.

Changing Places at The Deep

Changing Places at The Deep

We love The Deep in Hull because as a team the managers and staff who work there have literally pulled out every stop they have come across to make their venue accessible for everyone.

Now they’ve gone and done it again…

The Deep have created a Changing Places room and it looks amazing.

The Deep is once again leading by example.

Clumber Park, a National Trust Accessible Day Out

Clumber Park a last minute idea

National Trust days out provide us with calmness, interest, space, nature and entertainment. We like to roam the UK and discover new places to explore and having a National Trust membership allows us to do this within the safety of good expectations as in we know generally what we will experience when we arrive.

Clumber Park was last weeks destination to try out for the first time. We wanted to go somewhere to escape the rain up in the West so we drove down and found this lovely spot.

3800 acres of park and garden waited for us and even in our eager walking boots we knew we couldn’t remotely explore that so we settled for some woodland walks with the squirrels (a lot of squirrels), around the lake with the swans which were beautiful and elegantly dressing the lake in their whiteness. Being bird watching fans and proud members of the RSPB it was a nice suprise to know that so many different types of birds frequent the area.

Accessibility

The pathways are well maintained but it would be difficult through the woodland area as the pathways here are not that wide and winter debris are scattered well. However there are plenty of paths to take and there’s a lovely lake to walk around hosted by the wonderful swans comfortably minding there own business with the occasional showing off of their grandness.

We made it into the cafe before it closed and there wasn’t one disappointed member of our clan as they tucked into the many cakes and scones ordered.

 

A warm welcome, nice walks with open skies and it was a dry day. Perfect.