Accessibility
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* UPDATE * We're currently getting close to being an independently accessible space! Talk to us for more info if you're looking to book GAS in the coming months!
GAS is in an industrial warehouse which unfortunately was not designed with accessibility in mind. However, the GAS crew have attempted to make it as accessible as possible, but rather than say if it is 'accessible' or 'not accessible' we have tried to gather as much information about it as possible. |
Watch a video guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4KFj3gofe0
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Accessing GAS
There are 2 entrances to GAS:
If you are an event organiser, unfortunately the accessible back entrance can only be opened from the inside. That means you will need someone who is able to access the main entrance.
* We are currently in the process of installing a key-safe outside the back entrance to allow independent access via there.* (Jul 2019)
Can disabled people park near your premises?
How do I get to the stair-free entrance from the street?
- A main entrance, which requires 10 steps up to reach the front door.
- A back entrance, which is stairs-free and approached by a ramp from the car park.
If you are an event organiser, unfortunately the accessible back entrance can only be opened from the inside. That means you will need someone who is able to access the main entrance.
* We are currently in the process of installing a key-safe outside the back entrance to allow independent access via there.* (Jul 2019)
Can disabled people park near your premises?
- Yes, there is a ramp-area next to GAS that can be coned off when necessary with prior notice.
How do I get to the stair-free entrance from the street?
- It can be a little tricky to find. There are signs up to follow. From 53 Kilbirnie Street you go through two large metal gates with blue bins next to them (usually!) opposite the party cakes shop.
Is the entrance wide enough for all users?
Is the accessible entrance available anytime?
- Yes.
Is the accessible entrance available anytime?
- We ask all event organisers to ensure that this entrance is opened as it can only be opened from the inside. However, we have had instances where people have forgotten to open it. It may be best to let the event organiser know that you are coming and will need access, and to get their contact number to ensure you can contact someone if you get stuck outside.
Moving around
Is it easy to get around the premises?
Is signage clear?
Is the lighting as good as it could be?
Are floors, walls, ceilings and doors easily distinguishable?
Is the alarm system and procedure effective?
- The main hall, library, wood workshop, tea making area and toilets are on ground level.
- One toilet has rails and is usable by a wheelchair user.
- The kitchen and meeting room are up one flight of stairs which have handrails on both sides.
Is signage clear?
- Yes, please let us know if anything is unclear and we will endeavour to improve it.
Is the lighting as good as it could be?
- Yes, the indoor lighting is bright.
Are floors, walls, ceilings and doors easily distinguishable?
- Yes, the main hall walls are colourfully painted, the kitchen and toilet walls are painted white, and the non-slip floor is painted a blue colour.
Is the alarm system and procedure effective?
- Yes, smoke detectors are fitted and all fire safety equipment is in place.
Using facilities
Is seating available if necessary?
Are WC facilities accessible to all?
What is the temperature like within GAS?
Do you have an audio induction loop?
Are alternative facilities available if modifications cannot be made?
- Yes, a range of seating is available. We have sofas available for anyone that needs to lie down.
Are WC facilities accessible to all?
- Yes, we have one disabled toilet. This toilet also has a baby changer in it but does not have an emergency pull cord.
What is the temperature like within GAS?
- GAS can be cold at times. There are portable heaters available as well as infrared heaters in the main space which work best if you sit directly under them, but in the Winter it can still be cold enough to keep your jackets on because GAS is not well insulated so please wrap up warm! We also have hot water bottles available for anyone who would like to use one.
Do you have an audio induction loop?
- Unfortunately, we do not have a hearing induction loop.
Are alternative facilities available if modifications cannot be made?
- We will do our best to accommodate anyone’s needs. Email glasgowautonomous@riseup.net to let us know your requirements.
We hope that this information will help you in weighing up whether the space would work for you or your group. We are also aware that there are many facets to accessibility and ways to support people to feel welcome in the space. We will do our best to cater to whatever would work best for you or your event so please do get in touch and explore options with us. We really value feedback so please do get in touch.
One group, who are led by disabled people, gave us the following perspective on the accessibility of the space:
"In terms of accessibility we were impressed by the space, rails in the toilet and ramp that means a disabled person could access and participate. However as we have disabled organisers, and the main shutter cannot open from the outside, it isn't possible for us to host our sessions in the space. Thank you for the lovely food; wishing GAS all the best."
One group, who are led by disabled people, gave us the following perspective on the accessibility of the space:
"In terms of accessibility we were impressed by the space, rails in the toilet and ramp that means a disabled person could access and participate. However as we have disabled organisers, and the main shutter cannot open from the outside, it isn't possible for us to host our sessions in the space. Thank you for the lovely food; wishing GAS all the best."