Accessibility

Updated 23 September 2022.

We are committed to creating spaces where people feel comfortable, respected and are able to join in the conversation and share their knowledge. Our Code of Conduct outlines what you can expect from us when you come to one of our events and what we expect of you when you attend.

We endeavour to make our events as accessible as we possibly can, whether they are held online or in person. There is no such thing as a “fully accessible” venue or event, as accessibility needs of individuals and groups can clash even when attendees and organisers share the same disability or health condition. There will always be things we haven’t thought of, but we are committed to improving accessibility and appreciate you telling us about what you need to be comfortable in our spaces. To reduce the burden of people having to constantly ask for the same basic accommodations, and the stigma of asking at all, we made this webpage to tell you what we have available by default and give some idea of what it may or may not be possible to put in place.

Phoenix Andrews (phoenix@opendatamanchester.org.uk) – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Data – Research and Development Lead

 

In place at all our in-person events

  • Microphone and PA, which will be used by all speakers
  • No background music or echoes
  • Step-free entrance
  • Lift 
  • Doors that fit all standard sizes of wheelchair, both powered and manual
  • Accessible toilet in reasonable distance from event space (not used as store cupboard or the only baby change facility)
  • Personal assistants welcome
  • Clear agenda and timings
  • Events will run on time
  • Regular comfort breaks (times provided in advance for planning purposes)
  • Close to accessible public transport
  • Route from entrance to meeting space clearly signposted
  • Named accessibility contact(s) available on phone and email on the day of the event

 

Dependent on venue:

  • Accepts assistance dogs and provides water bowls
  • Multiple lifts
  • Drinking water freely available
  • Level entrance (preferable to ramps)
  • If there is a reception desk, height is suitable for wheelchair users and people of restricted growth
  • Accessible entrance is the same entrance as used by other attendees
  • Hearing loop
  • Power sockets for general use
  • Gender neutral toilets
  • Changing Places toilet
  • Space for mobility scooters
  • Prayer and washing facilities
  • Free refreshments (state exactly what will be available)
  • Accessible parking (reserved for those with mobility impairments) with minimal friction in the booking process
  • Images-and-descriptive-text guide to finding the venue from public transport stops

 

Available if requested in advance

  • Quiet side room
  • Separate room with fridge for pumping milk or storing medication
  • Silent applause (“jazz hands”)
  • Chair to ask people to limit audible fidgeting and talking while someone is speaking (where possible)
  • Large print agenda/other handouts
  • Sending slides in advance where relevant

 

Usually unavailable without additional funding or support 

  • BSL interpreters
  • Live transcription
  • Post-event transcription
  • Childcare provision/support
  • Braille and audio versions of publications/handouts
  • Travel bursaries