Overview

Annie is fifteen and lives in Halifax. Her interests include music, exercise and enjoying social outings to new experiences – a bit of a thrill seeker really! She is quadriplegic and uses her power wheelchair to get about. Her dad Matt, director of Visits Unlimited, took her on a voyage to The Deep as she wanted to visit the penguins!

Transport & Parking

It doesn’t get any better than this. Met at the entrance by a welcoming marshal who directed us to the disabled parking bays next to the entrance, a dedicated entrance for disabled visitors where we found level access, loads of spaces and clearly marked signage stating ‘free parking for disabled.’

Access

The facility is ramped throughout so Annie was independent throughout the whole experience. Particular nice touches included raised tables in the café so Annie could slot her chair in and not drop food down her front from reaching for her meal (her tartan dress stayed crumb free). Many of the exhibits are interactive – grab, turn, twist stuff round as well at watch listen and learn experiences.

Toilets

The only area for improvement is the toilets. They are clearly signposted and placed all around the site so no chance of delays and possible accidents as a result, but they are small. The ‘crew’ team will offer assistance and there is the use of the first aid room to change Annie if I’d needed to, avoiding the humiliation of changing her on the deck! Usual equipment in the loo, clean and tidy.

Staff

If there is a Euan’s Guide 6 rating the crew at The Deep would receive it. Dedicated access team meet you at the entrance and take your booking – no hassles over proof or negotiations on ticketing prices. There is the offer of help throughout the experience if required and a big smile from everyone for Annie and her team. We were made to feel special throughout the whole experience. It was noticeable how many disabled visitors were there on the day and how many young couples with buggies were enjoying the day. What more could you ask for.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Wonderful time!

Photos