Overview

Our son has FragileX Syndrome, learning disabilities and epilepsy. The Sandcastle is first truly accessible venue that we have found. A venue that doesn't think access just means a ramp & disabled loo. The staff are a joy. They greet my son by name and he now hugs the brilliant Inclusion Manger Sue Copp whenever he sees her. Highlights of the venue: Full wheelchair access to all areas (you can even borrow wheelchairs that can go into the water) Excellent disabled changing facilities with loo, showers, changing bed and hoist No need to queue - disabled visitors can go straight to the desk Wonderful Inclusion Manager called Sue Copp who really "gets" disability (especially learning disability) and cannot do too much to help:- escorting us to changing rooms, finding seats for family near the pool, arranging payment on the way out, turning the music down... Water Ambassadors offered to take T down the slides as I was there on my with him. Fab.

Transport & Parking

There are disabled parking spaces right next to The Sandcastle.

Access

Everything fully accessible for wheelchair users. There's a great page on their website lists all the facilities available including large print menus for the cafes.

Toilets

Staff escort you to one of the disabled changing rooms - each has a shower (with shower seat) and bench and plenty of room. Lockers solely for the use of disabled visitors are located right outside the loo and the First Aid team will look after the key for you so you don't have to take it into the loo. If you need more than one locker - that's fine.

Staff

If I could give a score higher than 5, I would. Every member of staff is lovely - they are really committed to it being a fully accessible venue. We travel 400 miles round trip to visit the venue (we stay with relatives nearby) and I've met so many people who travel similar distances - many have kids with LD who can't cope in other venues as not the support from staff.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The culture of accessibility to all people with disabilities starts at the top. Sue Copp has done a wonderful job to make sure that all visitors to The Sandcastle feel valued.