Beyond the ramp: Making community spaces welcoming for visitors with physical disabilities and sight loss

In the UK, an estimated 16.8 million people live with a disability, yet accessibility is still too often treated as an afterthought. Most of us like to think our spaces are welcoming to everyone, the doors open, there’s a ramp.  But for people with physical disabilities or sight loss, turning up to a community group or public building can be full of unknowns. Will I be able to get through the door, can I move around safely, will I have to ask for help just to get to the toilet?

There’s often a gap between what’s accessible and what feels usable and welcoming. For example, there might be clutter in a hallway, low lighting, or signs that are hard to read or the accessible toilet might be downstairs.

It’s not just about the building itself; people can make a huge difference too. Staff and volunteers don’t need to have all the answers, but a bit of awareness goes a long way. Knowing when to quietly offer help or being open if a person points out something that could be improved, can really shape someone’s experience of a place.

This short guide shares ten practical suggestions to help make your space not just legally accessible, but welcoming. They’re simple, sensible steps, the sort of things that don’t cost the earth but could make a real difference to someone’s experience.  Because accessibility shouldn’t stop at the front door.

Top 10 Accessibility Tips:

• Clear, high-contrast signage – Use large, bold text in high-contrast colours with simple icons. Position signs at eye level near entrances, exits, and key areas.
• Colour-contrasted steps and handrails – Paint steps and edges with a contrasting colour to improve visibility. Handrails should also have a contrasting colour to stand out from the walls.
• Adequate lighting – Ensure all areas are well-lit with minimal glare or shadow. Emergency lighting should be consistent and clear for easy navigation.
• Tactile floor indicators – Place tactile paving near entrances, staircases, ramps, and escalators to alert people to changes in floor levels or directional changes.
• Accessible toilets – Provide high-contrast, tactile signage on toilet doors and walls. Use contrasting colours for grab rails and add tactile indicators for essential areas like hand basins.
• Ensure hearing-loop compatible sound systems and consistent mic use.
• Accessible communications – Offer the option for large-print communications, either online or by post, and use font sizes and colours that support readability.
• Safe, clutter-free layout – Keep hallways, seating, and communal areas clear of clutter. Arrange furniture and items predictably to minimise trip hazards.
• Regular consultation with members – Conduct periodic consultations to understand the needs of members with sight loss and physical disabilities.
• Volunteer support – Establish a team of volunteers to assist with transport and in-building support to anyone that needs it.

Creating inclusive spaces isn’t just about meeting legal requirements – it’s about listening, learning, and acting. By embracing these ten practical tips and committing to regular consultation, we can move beyond the ramp and build environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and welcome.

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