Disability and Inclusion
Our pledge to Inclusivity & Accessibility
At Whitemoor Lakes, we believe that the joy of outdoor activities should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, ability, or circumstance. Our commitment to inclusivity is at the core of our values, and we strive to create an environment that welcomes individuals from all walks of life. We are dedicated to providing a welcoming space for everyone. We are passionate about breaking down barriers and ensuring that the thrill of outdoor activities is within reach for all.
- Positive attitude, training and awareness: Our team undergoes regular training and is dedicated to meet the diverse needs of all participants, fostering a non-judgemental environment of encouragement and support.
- Affordable access: We offer competitive prices throughout our offers, with seasonal prices for school groups and special packages like Adventure weekends to ensure that cost is not a barrier.
- Financial support and fundraising events: In cooperation with our charity NAYC we are committed to find funding opportunities like our PotentiALL Bursary fund to support those who need it the most, so that no child misses out. We regularly apply through various funding schemes for special equipment to adapt activities for individuals with varying needs.
- Venue spaces & accommodation: Our venue is all under one roof and on the ground floor. We also have a number of universally accessible bedrooms with wet room facilities.
Activities for all:
At Whitemoor Lakes we believe that every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, deserves the opportunity to engage in our activities. We offer many sessions that are accessible and don’t need an alternative method to run.
It is possible for the wheelchair user to be included in each timeslot by moving from one group to another where necessary and have a second chance to take part in some activities. Groups must remain within normal risk assessment ratios for this to be permitted.
The following activities have an alternative accessible option.
Our tower features a dedicated winch, empowering wheelchair users to reach the top of the tower. Additional instructors will be on hand to ensure that the individual is safely lowered into the wheelchair when they reach the bottom of the zip wire/ abseil wall.
The precision and focus of archery, an activity adaptable for wheelchair users with an adaptable bow stand and release aids, ensures that everyone can participate, mastering the bow and arrow in a supportive and welcoming environment.
We have a seat which can be fastened into a canoe to add increased stability. Carers or teachers may need to help to put the child into the canoe*
A wheelchair user can be paired with another wheelchair user, or a carer/teacher/peer sitting in a chair. Wheelchair fencing is a sport found in the Paralympics in fact!
We can run orienteering and compass course indoors to allow all participants to get involved in the session.
Indoor Enigma is held indoors and is fully inclusive or if it is preferred, the wheelchair user can contribute to the intellectual component of our outdoor Problem-Solving area.
We provide a seat which is fastened to a supported SUP board to add increased stability. Carers or teachers may need to help the individual onto the seat.
*Please note, participants for these activities ideally should be able to support their upper body (specifically head and neck) to some extent to avoid unnecessary strain on their upper spine.
Please contact us to discuss your group / individual requirements. Advance notice will be required to provide activities.
