Westgate Oxford to raise awareness of accessibility

The Breaking Down Barriers event will take place on November 26 and aims to highlight the centre's supportive facilities.

Representatives from various charities will be present at Leiden Square to educate guests and celebrate organisations that assist people in overcoming employment and life barriers.

Westgate Oxford (Image: Sonny Flanagan) Among the charities will be Aspire, which provides person-centred employment, enterprise development, housing, and support opportunities to empowers people to rebuild their lives and futures and realise their potential.

The 'No Limits' project, delivered by SOFEA and Aspire, which aims to remove barriers to work, education, or training in the Oxfordshire community, will also be present, as will Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, which helps people with sight loss live the life they choose.

Other organisations include the DWP Access To Work, a discretionary grant scheme providing personalised support to disabled people who are in or seeking employment, and Restore, which offers employment support to people with mental ill health.

Brendan Hattam, centre director at Westgate Oxford, said: "Here at Westgate Oxford, we’re committed to creating a space that makes a lasting positive contribution to the community we serve.

Westgate Oxford (Image: Sonny Flanagan) "There are more than 16 million people in the UK living with a disability, almost a quarter of the population, and it’s vital to create an inclusive and accessible environment for all guests.

"Our Breaking Down Barriers event is just one way we're working to raise awareness of these issues, and to improve our own facilities.

"We're proud to partner with these incredible charities who are making a real difference for the local community."

A spokesperson for Westgate Oxford said the centre is "dedicated to continuously improving inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors year-round".

The centre boasts several accessibility facilities, including accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities for people with profound and multiple disabilities.

These are 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.

Westgate Oxford (Image: Sonny Flanagan) Stoma-friendly facilities, which follow the Colostomy UK guidelines and include new wall hooks, lipped shelves, wall mirrors, and the correct disposal facilities are also available.

These are located in the main toilet area on the roof terrace, in social street food, on the lower ground mall, and on level two of the car park.

Wheelchair and mobility scooter hire is available free of charge, and there are 50 accessible parking spaces in the centre’s car park.

Hidden disability lanyards and sensory backpacks can also be collected from the guest experience desk.