On Thursday 16th March, a group of disabled volunteers from BuDS visited the nature reserve at Whiteleaf Cross and Brush Hill, Princes Risborough, to carry out a Fair4All Access & Inclusion Survey on behalf of the Chiltern Conservation Board. This was a paid survey, but the conclusions made and recommendations given are entirely that of BuDS, and are not influenced in any way by the Chiltern Conservation Board.
To learn more about Fair4All Access & Inclusion Surveys from BuDS, click here.
Carrying out the survey were Andrew, Fiona, Ben, and Freya. Between them, they have years of access auditing experience, as well as a wide range of lived experiences that enable them to effectively assess the site. Included in the group was a wheelchair user, people with mobility impairments, and people with mental health conditions and autism.
The survey involved a full tour of the site from car park to the far reaches of paths, with as many people reaching each location as possible. Where this was not feasible, the reasons for this were noted and passed on to the CCB. As part of the survey, the team assessed the entire user experience. This included the online information about the site, arrival at and traversing the site, assessing information boards and signs, how accessible each area was both physically and mentally, any sensory issues, and the emotions the site prompted. All our findings have been collated, and will be passed on to the CCB in a full report soon.
BuDS’ work at this site has been recognised by the Chiltern Conservation Board online, and BuDS is delighted to be continuing our partnership with them at other sites.