Features
- Free on-site parking with 12 blue badge bays close to the main entrance. No time restriction for vehicles parking with a valid blue badge (otherwise 3 hours maximum stay parking)
- There is level access from the accessible car parking spaces to a level access entrance
- Automatic entrance/exit doors
- Split level reception counter
- Reception staff can provide pen and paper on request to aid communication if required. There is no hearing loop at the present time
Leisure Centre Access
- There are turnstiles or a staff-operated security gate to access the swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms from the reception area
- There is level access throughout the main areas of the building. The squash courts are not accessible to most wheelchairs due to an internal door access restricting chairs to 60cm maximum width
- Assistance dogs accommodated in the office if required
- There is clear signage throughout the building and staff are happy to assist with navigation if required
- Accessible toilets are available (ground floor by the auditorium entrance, and first floor on the landing opposite the lifts). There is no hoist or changing bed available at present in these toilets
- A Changing Places facility including toilet, height adjustable changing bed, height adjustable sink, shower, privacy screen and a H track ceiling hoist, is located in the pool change area. Access is via a radar key, and a key can be borrowed from reception if required
- Accessible changing rooms (including toilet, adjustable bed, accessible shower and shower chair) are located in the pool change area, and a mobile hoist is available on request
- Pool hoist access is available using a sling and spreader bar (maximum user weight 135kgs [22st])
- Leisure attendants are happy to assist carers/personal assistants of individuals who require the pool hoist, but individuals need to provide their own slings for entry into the pool. Advance notice is not required but can be helpful There are designated wheelchair spaces in the pool gallery for spectators but access to these is very narrow (chairs need to be 60cm wide or less) and access to tiered seating is steep and may be difficult for those with balance issues or sensory impairment. Individuals requiring additional gallery accessibility may prefer to visit our Rochdale or Heywood Centres
- There is lift access to the first and second floor, and two wheelchair users at a time can be safely accommodated on each floor through provision of an evacuation chair and a refuge point at each level
- The main gym is on the first floor. Some gym equipment is tightly spaced but staff are happy to move equipment where possible, to facilitate safe transfer if required. There is a smaller exercise referral gym on the second floor, but stair-free access to this is through the studio, and is not possible while classes are taking place. Access to this area is also possible via a flight of stairs
- Double doors facilitate access to the sports hall for individuals using a sports chair or wider powered or manual wheelchair
- The dry change area has no accessible changing areas, so those requiring additional space or hoists and changing beds should use the pool change area.
The café is level access. The counter is single height but staff are happy to come around the side to take orders and payments if required - Essential carers accompanying an individual to enable them to access our services are not charged for entry, as long as they are supporting the individual throughout rather than following their own exercise programme. A carer who wishes to participate in their own exercise programme or in a class alongside the person they support is very welcome, but normal charges will apply
- The Your Card Extra scheme offers discounts for individuals with disabilities and for unpaid carers, older adults and those on restricted income
Auditorium Access
- There are a limited number of wheelchair spaces in the level access stalls area in front of the stage, which can be booked with the events team by calling 0300 303 8633. We highly recommend booking in advance to secure these seats. There is no wheelchair access to the upper level seating of the auditorium
- The tiered seating is steep and access may be challenging for some individuals, so we would recommend that anyone with balance issues, dementia, visual impairment or who struggles with stairs, narrow spaces or depth perception, may prefer to book seats in the stalls which offer level access
- Wheelchair users who wish to transfer into a theatre seat rather than remaining in their chair, must be capable of transferring back independently in the event of the building requiring evacuation. Please speak to a member of the events team on the evening if you require any further assistance
- Sensory packs are available to loan for the duration of an event, with a refundable deposit of £10 that is returned once the sensory pack is returned before leaving.
These include noise cancelling headphones, fidget tools, lanyards (optionally to be worn if you want staff to be aware of additional needs), a water bottle, and a stress reliever. These can be reserved when booking, or requested on arrival from a member of the events team - Deaf or hard of hearing individuals who need to contact the box office can do so by emailing arts.events@yourtrustrochdale.co.uk
- The bar area has level access
- Anyone attending an event who requires the use of the Changing Places facility should speak to a staff member, who will be happy to escort you through to the leisure side of the building where you can access it.
- We operate an essential companion scheme for individuals who cannot access our events without support, to enable a personal assistant to obtain a free ticket.
This is only open to people who have care needs that must be met during the event, whether related to mobility, guidance, emotional/behavioural support or personal care, and the essential companion will be expected to remain with the individual and meet these needs throughout their visit. They will also be expected to liaise with event staff regarding any requirements if the building should need to be evacuated. Unfortunately those who require support with transport or companionship only are not eligible for this scheme.
More information and the application form can be accessed here
There is only a limited number of Essential Companion tickets available per performance; we therefore recommend booking in advance to secure your seats