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Heritage Ability

Our team works with heritage sites across the south west supporting them in improving the customer experience for disabled people and Deaf people who use British Sigh Language

Person holding large print guide for a vistor attractions

The South West of England is brimming with heritage; from country parks, to historic houses, castles and rugged coastlines. It’s here to be enjoyed by everyone – but not everyone can.  We understand that some disabled and Deaf people (who use British Sign Language) struggle to experience these places because of physical barriers, a lack of accessible interpretation and untrained staff and volunteers.

Our Heritage Ability team are working with heritage sites and popular visitor attractions supporting them to improve their access, both physical and in the information they produce, so that everyone can visit and enjoy the experience.  So far the team have worked with over twenty destinations.  

Easy Read guides to large print formats, BSL tours and more

How does the team help improve visitor experience? By connecting people with places through the creation of  Easy Read Guides, large print formats, all terrain mobility hire and BSL tours.

Our solutions for people:

…with learning disabilities

Many of the destinations have complex histories and stories that can be overwhelming. We’re making Easy Read products to break down these barriers so they they can access their heritage.

…with visual impairments

Particularly in museum settings, the written information can be inaccessible for people with visual impairments. We’re making large print guides with accompanying maps, to help them unlock the information and navigate around the attraction.

…who use British Sign Language

For Deaf people who use British Sign Language (BSL), we’ll be working with the community to create BSL Tours. Take a look at our locations pages to see where these are currently available. They are also available to view on our YouTube channel.

…who are autistic

One of the biggest challenges for an autistic person is fear of the unknown. We’re creating Visual Stories, guides that will detail what can be unwelcome surprises at the destinations so they feel more at ease and prepared before a visit.

…with limited mobility

Many of the heritage places we’re working with will benefit from an all-terrain mobility scooter (or ‘Tramper’). This will enable those with limited mobility to access the outdoors like never before. The Tramper’s are part of an existing Living Options Devon scheme called Countryside Mobility.

…who need training

We train staff and volunteers in Disability Awareness and Deaf Awareness training.

You can find out more about Heritage Ability and the locations where you can find our accessible solutions on our dedicated website www.heritageability.org

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