The heart of Duns
5
5
Date of visit: October 2025
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Excellent
I visited the Volunteer Hall on my trip around Duns and was impressed by what I found. I had the opportunity to chat with Lindsay, the manager, and his commitment to making the venue as accessible as possible is exceptionally clear. Operated by a Heart for Duns, a local development trust, it is clearly a heart for the community. With regular events, monthly community lunches, and movie showings, this welcoming venue is a vital part of Duns.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
As I attended on a whim, I found myself having to go around to the right of the building, through the gate, which was rather light, and press the buzzer on the wall. Signage at the front door advised me to do this. It was then that I met Lindsay and explained that I'd visited with the intention of reviewing the venue. Although short on time, he kindly let me assess the venue. Lindsay let me in through the front, pinning open the double doors to the glass vestibule and main entrance. He also opened another set of doors, which take you through the main hall. I made note of a small lip, about 5 cm high, as I entered; it's not high enough to trip over but is something to note. The hall has hardwood flooring and is very spacious. During my visit, it was set up for a film showing, with rows of chairs and a path through the centre. There is a reasonably priced bar at the back of the room, though it doesn't have a low counter. A notice here also advises that cash payment is preferred. The corridor at the entrance is wide, and the accessible toilet can be found here.
Accessible facilities: Step-free entrance
Parking & Transport
Average
I travelled to this place by personal vehicle
There are two accessible parking spaces to the left of the main entrance. There are hatched markings between the two bays. I worry that the left space being so close to a shed might see you pinned in if someone parks next to you, though I get the sense that, as a small community, nobody would mind being asked to move. The 34 and 60 bus services operate at the bus stop just accross the street, which makes this location handy for public transport.
Accessible facilities: Dedicated on-site parking
Accessible Toilets
Good
The accessible toilet is on the left-hand side of the corridor as you arrive via the main entrance. The door to the toilet doesn't require a RADAR key and opens inwards. The toilet is locked by twisting the knob on the back of the door. The room has lino flooring, and the toilet pan can be found at the back of the room. There is space for a right-side transfer. I mentioned that the placement of a bin may make this awkward to use, and it was promptly moved – so that shouldn't be an issue. The toilet seat and rails on either side contrast well against the off-white wall. The red emergency cord hangs to the right when seated and was free of obstructions – love it. The small sink has a lever-style tap and a single blue grab rail to the right. A colostomy shelf is installed on the left as you enter. The room has more than enough space for most mobility devices and has a baby change for those who require it.
Facilities: Accessible toilet
Staff
Excellent
If I haven't made it clear already, Lindsay, the venue manager, is great. He was eager to hear how the venue might improve and how they can support disabled visitors.
