Become more inclusive - FREE Access for All event

The Forest of Bowland National Landscape team is working together with Access the Dales and other partners to create a free two-day Access For All event this June.

Access for All Celebration Event

Described as an ‘exciting celebration of what’s possible’, the event aims to help organisations, businesses and individuals learn more about accessibility, share best practice and engage in inclusive activities in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Sustainable Tourism Officer for the Forest of Bowland National Landscape Hetty Byrne explains: ‘The event is being held in Gisburn Forest and looks set to be really fun and interesting. On Tuesday June 25th we have a series of valuable workshops being delivered by subject specialists including an introduction to British Sign Language.

‘Hopefully business owners will get some helpful and diverse ideas of how they can be more inclusive and accessible to visitors.

‘It’s not always about whether or not you can introduce a wheelchair lift, for example. There are countless small ways to make your premises more welcoming, such as large-print menus or online video tours to prevent people feeling overwhelmed before visiting.

‘Topics and discussions during the event will focus on autism, dementia, mental health, inclusivity in the outdoors and tourism.’

Various accommodation options are available including camping, and evening festivities will include casual conversations, music, campfire and a guided evening bat walk for those interested in exploring the forest after dark.

A variety of all-terrain wheelchair providers will be attending the two-day event with a range of vehicles for delegates to try.

The following day will see attendees and specially invited guests try out a range of inclusive, outdoor activities such as forest bathing, bushcraft, story time movement, a navigation workshop, nature connection with sound, an alpaca experience, and a foraging & wellbeing wander.

Sarah Dornan, Countryside Access Officer for the Forest of Bowland National Landscape said: ‘Events like this provide a wonderful opportunity for organisations and businesses to come together and share experiences and best practice. We are proud to showcase what’s on offer in Bowland and delighted that we can offer this event to people for free, which is being made possible via DEFRA Accessibility Funding’.

25th and 26th June 2024

Find out more at forestofbowland.com/access-all-event

Call 01200 448000 or email [email protected]