Access Welcome Guide

The Seaweed Centre provides an accessible bathroom designed to support wheelchair users and visitors with additional access requirements. The bathroom is located on an accessible route within the building and has sufficient space to allow wheelchair users to manoeuvre comfortably.

Features include:

• Wide entrance door for wheelchair access 2200 mm × 1500 mm
• Clear floor space to support wheelchair turning and movement
• Accessible toilet with grab rails positioned for support and transfers
• Accessible wash hand basin positioned at an appropriate height
• Easy-to-use taps and fixtures
• Emergency assistance alarm/call system (if available)
• Non-slip flooring for improved safety
• Good lighting levels to support visibility

Staff are available if assistance is required and are happy to answer any questions about access before or during your visit. If you have specific requirements, please contact us in advance so we can support your visit as best as possible.

Audio Tour on Walking Routes

Audio tours are available on our walking routes to help visitors explore and enjoy The Seaweed Centre experience at their own pace. These tours provide additional information and storytelling along the route and can support visitors who prefer audio-based information.

Please ask a member of staff for information on how to access the audio tour before starting your walk.

Step-Free Access

The Seaweed Centre provides step-free access to key visitor areas to support wheelchair users, visitors with reduced mobility, families with buggies, and anyone who benefits from level access. Routes are designed to minimise barriers and allow easier movement throughout the centre where possible.

Disability Awareness & Equality Training

The Seaweed Centre is committed to providing disability awareness and equality training for all staff as part of their induction. This helps ensure every team member understands how to support visitors with a wide range of needs respectfully and confidently.

Training is refreshed regularly, particularly for staff in customer-facing roles, to keep knowledge up to date and to reinforce good practice in accessibility, inclusion, and customer care.

We believe ongoing training is an important part of making sure everyone receives a welcoming and inclusive experience when they visit.

Emergency Evacuation for Visitors with Disabilities or Access Requirements

The Seaweed Centre has a General Emergency Evacuation Plan (GEEP) in place to support the safe evacuation of all visitors, including those with disabilities or specific access requirements. The plan considers a range of needs to help ensure everyone can leave the building safely and as quickly as possible in the event of an emergency.

Our staff are trained in emergency procedures and are aware of how to provide appropriate assistance where needed. If you have any specific access requirements, we encourage you to let us know on arrival so we can support you appropriately during your visit.

Sensory Supports Available

Sensory equipment is available to support visitors and may be located within a dedicated sensory space or provided in other areas of The Seaweed Centre. Available equipment includes:

• Ball pit
• Bubble tube
• Interactive sound wall
• Weighted blankets

If you have specific sensory requirements or questions before your visit, please contact us — we are happy to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Quiet Space / Room

The Seaweed Centre has a quiet room available for visitors who may need a calm and low-stimulation environment.
The room is closed off from the main public areas to help provide a peaceful space. If you would like to use it, please ask a member of staff on arrival or during your visit, and we will be happy to assist you.