Overview

The Brooklyn Hotels (in Manchester and Leicester) have issued an ‘Accessibility Statement’ as follows: “Hotel Brooklyn is the first hotel in the UK with fully accessible ‘Liberty’ Suites and bedrooms. We believe we are trailblazers in setting a new Industry Gold Standard for Accessibility, but our aim is simply to be ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL GUESTS. Working with accessible design specialists, Motionspot, we have built accessibility into every aspect of our hotel experience. This includes 18 stunningly adapted rooms, beautifully integrated ceiling track hoists and thoughtfully designed public areas. All with our unmistakeable Brooklyn style. Nothing is too much trouble for our Guys and Dolls on duty who are trained in a whole range of skills to support guests with additional physical, cognitive and sensory needs. Our aim is to make your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible; Call it an intention to provide a home away from home. …” I had booked a special offer one night stay via a third party and when I made clear I needed a room with a walk in shower, the third party replied that it would add £40 to the bill. As this would be charging for a reasonable adjustment for disability, I E-mailed the hotel to protest, pointing to their Accessibility Statement. Lo and behold, I was promptly and in a dignified and kindly manner given one of their Liberty Rooms at no extra charge. There are different levels of Liberty Room and I didn’t see the hoists. My bedroom was large and with beds at a good height – plus it featured a red cord at the side of the bed. Other accessibility ‘extras’ were gadgets for raising the bed head (that needed recharging, so I didn’t get to try the sitting up position when watching a film). The room did contain a really useful fridge and even had a small machine that produced coffee from pods. When it came to the en-suite wet room, this was amazing. I have not enjoyed such a fantastic shower experience since prior to becoming mobility impaired. The shower area had been beautifully designed and this showed in that it worked perfectly. It was spacious. No less than four handrails and an extremely safe and comfortable shower seat made it far more likely that a disabled person could indulge in a thorough wash, while relaxing, like a non-disabled person can. I found the toilet a little low, but there was a safety rail. As is claimed, the staff are great and the public areas attractive. I ate both evening meal and breakfast in the restaurant, and the food was lovely. The starters were particularly impressive and there was excellent choice in the morning. I was able to find a seat in the restaurant that I could comfortably use. It was quiet for both meals and could prove less than accessible at busy times. The hotel is very close to the National Express coach station and just about within walking distance (for me) of Piccadilly Station.

Transport & Parking

I took five buses to get there - free, using my disabled travel pass - the downside being that the journey took in excess of 4 hours.

Access

There was level access from the street, and lifts to the rooms. The lobby contained seating that was reasonably suitable for mobility impaired persons.

Toilets

The toilets in the public area were signposted, the disabled loo was easy to find, and there was enough space within to manoeuvre and for a carer.

Staff

Staff were pleasant and friendly, but I didn't test out their skills at supporting guests with disabilities. Additional information, such as what to do if a fire broke out, would have been appreciated.

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