Neurodiversity Accessibility Audit
- Saltram House & Gardens (National Trust)
- April - June 2022
- Report on current accessibility and recommendations for future improvements
- Plymouth Heritage Praxis & National Trust
Background
Part of my MA Heritage Theory and Practise at the Unveristy of Plymouth, my class collectively produced an Accessibility Audit for Saltram, a National Trust site in Devon. Each of us chose from the different sub audiences, and mine was SEND and Neurodiversity.
It was also an introduction into using a Conservation, Curation and Experience Plan, which I found fascinating in how it brought together all this different research. Our audit was to form part of an application for further funding to carry this plan out. As well as the written report, I also gave a presentation to stakeholders.
For the project I wrote an analysis of what provision they already had, what other sites and industries had done that could be applied, and I researched what stories fit within their existing narratives that would enable inclusion via representation.
My work
I really enjoyed the teamwork element of this project, as resources and ideas that benefit neurodiverse people, often also benefit those with other access needs. For example, a sensory trail with samples of what parts of the environment would feel to touch (to avoid touch of the fragile originals) would also benefit the blind.
Many existing ideas could easily be extended. For example, a microwave available to reheat baby food could be used for those with restrictive diets or limited safe foods. Similarly, much of the provision aimed at children could be remarketed to allow all ages to experience the sensory elements or explore special interests like bugs.
More could also be made of how the house itself was collection and curated – with patterns and themes running through it that others could relate to.
This also allowed me to talk about comorbidity and how many neurodiverse people go undiagnosed. I used the opportunity to speak to the stakeholders to also introduce the social model of disability and how much of a difference they would make.
Representation
There were already pieces in the setting that could also feature a ND story – from library chairs that become steps or that encouraged you to sit ‘backwards’ on them – adapted to individual preference, or a letter that talked about a young boy’s struggle reading.
I also explored famous visitors to the House in its history, who had traits that ND people would recognise and relate to – even if we can’t say that person themselves was ND.