Overview

I was invited to The Gate for my input as they are working on the building and want to make it more accessible to people with disabilities. I got a look around during the week then attended Sunday service. It was a positive experience and I’m happy I was able to attend in my powerchair due to their recent adaptations. There is a good sense of community, friendly people, and good modern music. The main church is wheelchair accessible, there is an accessible toilet and a loop recorder.

Transport & Parking

We were able to park right outside on our first visit and in the small car park on our next visit. There is on street parking and a council carpark across the road. There is a bus stop just outside and the church is in quite a central location, about ten minutes walk from town

Access

When we reached the main door there were staff in marked clothing who immediately addressed up and guided us to the side door (right side of building) through a gate and up a concrete ramp. On entering the building the door is so large that two doors needs to open (one to the main auditorium). On my first visit they said they are looking to knock a wall in to make space and have spoken to contractors about this. Once in the hall, I took the second door to the main auditorium where they have recently made access. I was able to get through doors easily and turn into the wheelchair space. They have removed a pew the length of the back room so there was loads of space! This is in the centre of the back wall so I had a good view mostly and there was a screen on a pillar so I could still read the song words even if my direct view was obstructed when people were standing. The area is on a slight slope but I did not find it problematic. There is no signage at this point but the pastors and staff all seemed aware and had been in to ensure I was able to get in ok. They also put in two chairs for my companions to sit next to me instead of on the pew at my back

Toilets

There is an accessible toilet just as you come in. I was told they are working to get this up to code (it does not have a red cord/ alarm and is quite small) and are in talks to knock it in and build a bigger toilet at the other end of the hall. You’d need to move the nappy bin under the sink to transfer, there were some grab rails and the sink was at a good height. There is not really space for a wheelchair and a carer and no turning space. I look forward to seeing this updated. In the coffee bar which is currently not ideal for wheelchair access they have a new disabled toilet.

Staff

The pastor invited me to share my views and help advise them on how they can make the church more accessible for people with disabilities. They are concerned about the access and are keen to make further adaptation including paving a ramp to reception and from there having a platform lift to get down to the cafe. They are also looking to improve the toilets and entryway. There were staff around who are happy to help, friendly, and not ‘in your face’. Everyone was really friendly and helpful and I was encouraged by their eagerness to make the church accessible not only to those with mobility problems but also people hard of hearing.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

They have a hearing loop. They are going to begin doing teas and coffees in the main auditorium in addition to the cafe after the service so it is more accessible to everyone. The cafe is beautiful and great once in but wheelchair entry is currently via a side street where the pavement is too narrow for any wheelchair and the road is cobbled and very uneven. There are also two steps at the door. They have spoken to the council about making the street safer but are also keen to make the adaptation within the church via a lift. The seating area was really good and I really enjoyed the service. I would recommend a visit and I will update as changes happen

Photos