Accessible gem at heart of the local community
4
4
Date of visit: January 2015
I am a carer or friend of a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
David's is a book shop, music and film store and cafe all rolled into one. It's the hub of the Letchworth community and has made effort to make its premises accessible to everyone. The main door is wide and although not automatic the staff keep an eye out from the nearby counter and will happily assist. The downstairs is fully accessible - with wide aisles, and a ramp from the book store down to the music store and importantly the cafe. No visit to Letchworth is complete without coming to David's.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
The main door is wide with no step. Although not automated , the counter's position means that the door and any customers waiting at it are clearly visible to the staff. The staff are always happy to help people. Once inside the ground floor is extensive, with the vast majority of the books easily accessible from a wheelchair. The music/film store and cafe are on a slightly lower level but there is a gently sloping ramp which makes it easy to move between these areas. The cafe is small but well planned so it will readily accommodate wheelchairs. Upstairs 2nd hand books -ask staff for help.
Parking & Transport
Good
On street parking outside the front of the shop means you should be able to park close to the store (this is not reserved for disabled vehicles though so plan your time of visit)
Accessible Toilets
Average
There is a toilet behind the cafe but the access is more restricted. Wheelchair access is a challenge, but it is accessible for those with walking sticks or frames.
Staff
Excellent
The staff are very well trained , aware and helpful. The counters are reasonably high but it is possible to pay discretely by using the card payment machines (flexible cord). As it's a family owned, independent shop the level of personal service and flexibility is excellent.
