• Spring Conference
  • Access, Assistance And Facilities For Disabled People

Access, Assistance And Facilities For Disabled People

The Sage Gateshead

There is level access to the venue.and four passenger lifts give access to every level. If you need assistance at the venue, please do not hesitate to contact any of our stewards who will assist wherever possible.

Hearing impairments

An induction loop system, which can be linked to visitors' hearing aids, is operated in the Auditorium.

Sign language interpretation will be provided during all sessions held in the Auditorium. A number of seats are reserved in front of stage left for representatives using this service.

Visual Impairments

Assistance Dogs are welcome.

For those representatives who would benefit from being closer to the stage due to a visual impairment, a small number of seats are reserved at the front of the Auditorium.

Electric scooters

The Liberal Democrats have a limited number of mobility scooters available to conference members, free of charge. They are available on a first come, first served basis and will need to be picked up from the conference centre and returned each evening for charging. To request use of a mobility scooter, email conferences@libdems.org.uk .

Information and assistance at conference

Anyone who requires assistance should approach a conference steward or one of the staff at the Sage Gateshead. Robert Littlehales is the disabled access steward at conference. You can contact him both in advance of and during conference on 07712 667702 or at rlittlehales@aol.com, or ask for him at the Information Desk on-site.

Wheelchair user accommodation grant

In recognition of the significant extra cost of staying in the specially adapted accessible rooms in larger hotels, we are offering financial assistance to eligible party members to bring their conference costs in line with those of party members staying in a cheaper bed and breakfast establishment. The scheme hopes to assist those wheelchair users who would normally struggle to attend conference due to the often high cost of accessible accommodation.

An application form and additional information will become available in due course.

Other Requirements

If you have any specific requirements that are not mentioned, please contact the Conference Office: email conferences@libdems.org.uk and we will endeavour to assist.