Access
Echo Echo Studios are wheelchair accessible and a platform lift services both floors in the centre.
The venue can provide a quiet space if it is required.
Echo Echo Studios was awarded a 'Change A Little Change A Lot' disability access silver award in 2014.
The venue has undertaken an Access Audit and carried out a wide range of further accessibility improvements in 2021 supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council - see below.
Echo Echo staff and artists have undertaken a variety of relevant training including Access Awareness Training, Autism Awareness Training, JAM Card Training and BSL/ISL Training.
If you have a specific access requirement please contact us in advance and we will be happy to help.
Access Improvements (2021)
Echo Echo has made an extensive range of improvements to accessibility at our home studios at Magazine Street on Derry’s historic City Walls following an independent access audit. The project was kindly supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council through the Department for Communities Regional Access and Inclusion Fund.
Lift
A new platform lift has been installed restoring full accessibility to all floors of the building.
Toilets
Our upstairs and downstairs accessible toilets have been reconfigured to better suit the needs of people with disabilities. Works include – addition of full length mirrors, soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, shelves and door operating instructions. Sinks have been lowered and moved closer to toilet basins with taps repositioned. Support rails, emergency alarm pull cords and reset panels have been relocated to be within the recommended distance from sanitary facilities.
Signage
High contrast wayfinder signage and individual room signage have been designed and added throughout the building.
Handrail
An extra handrail has been manufactured and added to the staircase leading to the theatre for added safety on the stairs.
Baby changer
A baby changer unit has been permanently installed in our downstairs WC.
Hearing Loop
Both of our studios have been fitted with permanent hearing enhancement systems as well as signage advising of its presence. Our front door entry speaker system has had a hearing loop installed and we also have a portable hearing loop for box office and small meeting settings.
Additional
- We have upgraded our means of escape provisions by procuring an evacuation chair for travel up and down stairs as well as providing training for staff and ensemble on the use of the chair.
- All doors have had their opening and closing forces adjusted to the recommended forces.
- Sanitary ware in WCs have had their tonal contrasts increased where required to aid people with restricted visibility.
- A selection of seating with and without armrests has been obtained for our theatre.
- Thermostatic mixing valves have been adjusted in all WCs and kitchen to ensure water temperature does not exceed recommended safety levels.
- WC door opening/closing signage upgraded.
- A non-slip all weather mat installed inside front door.
- Tactile stair nosing has been added throughout the building for added safety on stairs.
Social Narrative Video
Thanks to Derry City and Strabane District Council and University of Atypical.
Social Narrative Video - ISL
Social Narrative Video - BSL
Gallery
