Disabled Access Day Comes to Nottingham

Many of us take it for granted that we can enter the places we want to, visit the attractions we enjoy, and generally not have to worry about our trips out and about exploring everything that's there to see and do in our leisure time. For people with access needs, however, it can be a real struggle to find the information that is desperately needed to enjoy a problem free day out and holiday. Here in Nottinghamshire, we work closely with the national tourism body, VisitEngland, as well as local venues, attractions and accommodation providers, to ensure that we are able to provide as much detailed information for those with access needs as possible. From listening to feedback, we know that access to accurate, reliable information is key, and we're also working with our tourism partners to stress that - while wheelchair access is, of course - incredibly important, there are many other people who have access needs - whether it's mobility impaired elderly visitors, people with pushchairs, or those with non-physical impairments. You can see our Access for All guide here. On Saturday the 12th of March, Nottinghamshire will be joining the rest of the country in celebrating Disabled Access Day. There's a packed schedule of special events for those with access needs, hosted by some of the county's leading venues. You'll be able to take tours, learn about the access provisions that are in place at many venues, and enjoy free coffee and biccies! It's Awareness Month at The Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, and they will be hosting a special Open Day, which will introduce you to recent access facility improvements, and give you a chance to learn about the programme of performances coming up - which offer accessible additions, such as audio descriptions, British Sign Language (BSL), captions and relaxed performances. Nottingham Playhouse will be also hosting an Open Day, giving visitors the chance to see behind the scenes with both signed and wheelchair-friendly backstage tours. You can attend talks, including one from the 'Ramps on the Moon' Project Administrator, Sharon Osbourne. The National Ice Centre, meanwhile, will be aiming to get Nottingham moving, offering ice skating sessions for people with access requirements at 10-12pm, 2:30-5pm (disco and at 7.30-9.30pm (disco session). These are priced at £3.50 for persons with access requirements, which includes access for one free carer if required. Broadway Cinema hosts regular Supportive Environment Screenings, which are ideal for those on the Autism spectrum. The lights are left a little higher, the volume is reduced, and viewers can move around if they feel uncomfortable. Broadway will be screening a Supportive Environment of Zarafa for Disabled Access Day. Read more about what's coming up here, and stay tuned to our social media channels for more information on the events planned.