Case studies
This page contains a selection of organisations who have successfully applied for grants from the City Bridge Trust to improve access to their buildings.
West Hampstead Women’s Centre
The West Hampstead Women's Centre (WHWC) offers drop-in support for women experiencing problems, including domestic violence. They provide counselling, run support groups and classes. They also offer advice on healthy living and financial issues.
The launch of the new centre on 5 September 2007 marked the completion of access works funded by the City Bridge Trust’s Access to Buildings grant. Sara Lewellin, Deputy Chief Grants Officer from CBT attended the opening and commended the project.
‘Seeing the long efforts of the WHWC come to fruition is really exciting and satisfying. A lot of older women already use the centre and we also hope that more disabled people will now also be able to participate in what the building has to offer.’
User Consultation
The WHWC conducted an access survey and approximately 30 users were interviewed. Their approach was adopted the social model of disability, asking how the environment could be best adapted to their requirements. Through this method they were able to identify needs, which had not yet been considered, such as electric cooking utensils and magnifying glasses. It also confirmed the need for a range of different seating, as all types were requested, for example chairs with hard and cushioned seats, high backs and arm rests.
Access works
The new ramped approach is 1:15, within range of best practice guidelines. Stairs are available at one side. The handrails were painted black for better visibility and the edges of the ramp are marked with contrasting white lines. A call button is available at the bottom of the stairs and ramp.
The new accessible toilet inside the building is in stark contrast to the neglected facilities located in an outside porter cabin. The male and female toilets have additional handrails to assist ambulant disabled users.
Signage, wayfinding and auxiliary aids
The direct passage to reception, from the main doors improves wayfinding. The word ‘Reception’ in large black letters clearly contrasts against the lilac wall. The desk also has two levels for use by a range of users. Embossed symbols mark the entrances to the toilets. The project ran over budget so the staff made some temporary signs following best practice guidance.
The colour contrast of features, walls, ceilings and floors, with different colours for different rooms, are effective for orientation and create a welcoming environment. Doors were adapted to swing both ways, painted for contrast and door handles changed to the lever type and positioned for accessibility. There is a black handle and handrail installed against the white doorframe, assisting with the change in floor level to the therapy room.
The WHWC also received funding for hearing loops and personal listening equipment. A big button telephone with adjustable volume and display has also been provided at reception.
Management policies, practices and procedures
The WHWC have a comprehensive access policy and access statement. There is a commitment to eliminate physical, sensory, intellectual, cultural, attitudinal and financial barriers to their services. Carola Kornfield, Fundraiser and Development Worker for the WHWC, proactively sought information and shared her knowledge with her colleagues. They have planned accessibility awareness, equipment and possibly BSL training. Their website is available to view in larger text and different languages.
Carola provides some advice to other groups adapting their premises.
‘My advice is, to contact the Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) early for advice and pass on all the relevant information to the architects and the building contractors, ensuring that they are aware of all aspects from the very beginning... the key is to give the access information in the design process [stage].’