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Bishops’ College, Churchgate, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire. EN8 9XQ
Tel: (01992) 785592 Fax: (01992) 626917 e-mail:
PRESS RELEASE
Date: 12 January2014 / Ref:2/visiongrowth15Contact: Jessica Palmer, Senior Communications Officer
The Laura Trott Leisure Centrewelcomes
blind and partially sighted users
Last year, the Council met with the Community Services Director for Vision4Growth, Fiona Musgrove, to discuss how changes to The Laura Trott Leisure Centre could make it more accessible to blind and partially sighted visitors.
Mrs Musgrove was given a tour of the Centre and she identified key areas for change. The Council has since introduced gym inductions specifically for the visually impaired and has arranged for tactile signage to be installed.The Council is also looking to procure new specialist gym equipment to suit sensory needs.
The changes aim to enhance the user experience for guests who don’t have perfect vision so they can get fit in a safe and secure environment.
Mrs Musgrove was encouraged by the changes, saying “It is important that disabled people have access to gyms as it can play a key role in promoting health, wellbeing and confidence.For many, the gym is the only safe environment for them to get fit and having this recognised is excellent.”
Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, Councillor Dee Hart said “We always welcome feedback on these matters and I’m pleased we have implemented the recommendations; these will help to make the Centre and gym in particular more welcoming to blind and partially sighted residents in the local area. I’d encourage those who were hesitant before to come and speak with our friendly staff about how they can take advantage of the accessible facilities.”
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Notes to editor: Vision4Growth is Vision4growth is a charitable organisation aimed at creating opportunities for people with sight loss. More information at