About Access is building a history of helping properties to operate safely

About Access is now established as the perfect partner for organisations who want to make sure their historic sites don’t become tourist traps.

Based in Yorkshire and operating nationwide, the company has developed an impressive portfolio of work with churches, castles, stately homes and other heritage properties to help them look after their visitors and staff – and to make sure they keep within the law.

Most recently, About Access completed an audit for English Heritage of five famous sites – Tintagel Castle and Pendennis Castle in Cornwall, Battle Abbey in Sussex, Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire and Witley Court in Worcestershire.

The company was founded in 2006 by Ian Streets, now managing director. As a member of the National Register of Access Consultants and the Access Association, Ian works with BSI Standards, the UK’s national standards body, to advise on appropriate designs for buildings and their surrounding areas.

About Access has worked for blue-chip clients – the company completed a major project last year for Virgin Atlantic airline and for Virgin Holidays – and offers a rare expertise embracing modern and heritage properties.

At the heart of the company’s activities is Ian’s experience, and his recognition that there is more to access issues than meets the eye.

He said: “Sometimes it is not about physical barriers but has more to do with procedures and policies. Our work ranges from assessing the physical features of a building to reviewing customer service.

“The sort of access improvements that benefit a disabled person will also really help older people and families with young children.

“You can help visitors plan their day out, and make them feel more welcome, by indicating in advance the presence or absence of such facilities as lifts, ramps and handrails and of such potential hazards as steps, slippery floors and uneven ground.”

So, in addition to helping a property operate within the requirements of the Equality Act, About Access will help owner organisations take a pro-active approach to developing their sites carefully as attractions which can be enjoyed in comfort and safety by as many people as possible.

It is a process that also involves helping a management team plan budgets for any work that may be required.

Ian said: “Our input starts from the drawing board, which is important because even historic sites have to add modern facilities.

“But our work for English Heritage was on buildings dating back to the 13th century and beyond. They were constructed in the days when disabled access really wasn’t a priority, and even though they’re much older now they’re definitely much safer!”

• For further information on how About Access can help you and your properties please contact Ian Streets, Managing Director, telephone: 01482 651101, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. website: www.aboutaccess.co.uk.