Accessible Information project

Year Two

The Sensory Trust’s Accessible Information project has now entered its second year. The first year of the project has been very successful and we have exceeded our original targets for numbers of beneficiaries.

To date the project has worked with a range of organisations and locations including,

• Eden Project – the development and design of a series of banners for the walk to the visitors centre and the development of easy access maps and information for the Eden Sessions concerts
• Commonwealth War Graves Commission – a review of existing information provision and procedures leading to a training and consultation second phase

The project also included a well received series of training events held in Cornwall, Manchester and London. We anticipate that the second year will include further training days.

The activities in the first year have highlighted the fact that people with learning disabilities and difficulties are frequently overlooked when it comes to providing information. They are however often the ones most challenged by traditional methods of communication and information delivery. Working closely with Widgit, the creators of a symbol language, the project is working to improve information provision for these visitors and their families and friends.

Improvements in accessible information have benefits which reach beyond the direct beneficiaries. They allow carers, families and friends to plan and access outdoor spaces as well as improving the visitor experience for the wider public.

The positive reactions from site managers and staff and opportunities for their personal professional development have been a further achievement of the project to date, with raised awareness of the needs of different visitors and increasing involvement in and engagement with accessibility issues.

Registered Charity No. 1020670. Company limited by guarantee No. 02811046

© 2008 Sensory Trust