Westgate Oxford seeks accessibility input this Purple Tuesday
On Tuesday 4th November, Westgate Oxford is marking Purple Tuesday by raising awareness of the challenges that disabled shoppers can face, as well as engaging with guests to explore ways to make the centre more accessible.
Purple Tuesday is an annual initiative which looks to improve the customer experience for disabled people and their families year-round. Participating organisations such as Westgate Oxford make commitments to greater inclusion and accessibility to ensure a positive experience for all visitors.
The centre will be hosting a variety of charities at Leiden Square to educate guests, as well as celebrate organisations that help people overcome barriers to employment and life:
- Aspire empowers people to rebuild their lives and futures and realise their potential, by providing person-centred employment, enterprise development, housing, and support opportunities.
- Driving Miss Daisy helps people maintain their independence, choice, and quality of life by providing driving and companion services designed to support those with physical or mental disabilities, developmental issues, and other social needs.
- Guide Dogs for the Blind Association helps people with sight loss live the life they choose.
- DWP Access To Work is a discretionary grant scheme that provides personalised support to disabled people who are in or seeking employment.
- Restore offers employment support for people with mental ill health.
- Oxfordshire Head Injury Services provide expert rehabilitation, specialist therapies, information, and community support for people who have experienced brain injury and their families.
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust provides physical, mental health and social care for people of all ages across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and North East Somerset.
- Oxfordshire MIND promotes good mental health through the provision of high quality services and campaigning for positive change.
The Westgate Oxford team will also be on-hand to discuss accessibility challenges and take feedback from centre visitors. The centre is dedicated to continuously improving inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors all year round, with facilities including:
- Stoma-friendly facilities, which follow the Colostomy UK guidelines and include wall hooks, lipped shelves, wall mirrors, and the correct disposal facilities.
- Accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities for people with profound and multiple disabilities, each fitted with specialist equipment such as a hoist and changing bench with enough space for up to two carers to assist those with a disability.
- Wheelchair and mobility scooter hire to ensure guests with mobility issues can enjoy their visit. Hire is free of charge and booking is essential.*
- Hidden disability sunflower lanyards and sensory backpacks which include ear defenders, fidget toys for stress relief, and soft toys to provide comfort and tactile stimulation. These can be collected from the Guest Services Desk.
- Quiet hours take place in Social Street Food from 9am-10am on Monday-Saturday, then 10-11am on Sunday. During these times, no music is played for those who prefer a calmer environment without music or mall activity.
- SignLive, a new Video Relay Service is available and allows deaf and hard of hearing guests to connect with an online BSL interpreter during opening hours, with the BSL interpreter communicating with the member of staff. To access this service, guests can visit the Guest Service Desk or scan one of the SignLive QR codes provided by members of staff.
Brendan Hattam, Centre Director at Westgate Oxford, said: “With more than 16 million people in the UK living with a disability, and 80% of those having hidden impairments, it’s vital that places like Westgate Oxford are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to everyone.
“Purple Tuesday is an opportunity to celebrate the steps we’ve taken so far, while also recognising there is always more to do. From our stoma-friendly and Changing Places facilities to quiet hours and accessibility-friendly initiatives, we’re committed to creating an environment where all our visitors – no matter their needs – feel valued, supported, and able to enjoy everything the centre has to offer.”
For further details, please visit www.westgateoxford.co.uk
ENDS
*Please note that the wheelchair and mobility scooter hire is operated from the car park office.
Notes to Editors
This information has been distributed on behalf of Westgate Oxford by Umpf. For further information please contact Ali Gritt or Octavia Hargrove by emailing [email protected] or calling 0800 4 10 20 10
Westgate Oxford
Westgate Oxford is a modern retail and leisure destination, attracting world-class retailers and leisure facilities to the historic city of Oxford.
With over 100 brands and 20 restaurants, bars and cafes, Westgate Oxford offers a unique retail experience in the heart of Oxford.
Find out more at www.westgateoxford.co.uk
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