Garden centre and its cafe
4
4
Date of visit: March 2016
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
I'm a regular customer at Steven Smith's. That's because people like me, in my wheelchair, are welcome. The whole venue is on one level although there are ramps where I need strong arms to wheel myself. The products are all that you'd expect in a garden centre, including shops selling kids' toys, clothing for all age groups, and pets. The café is popular with all age groups and with people of every ability. A good range of foods and drinks. Friendly, professional staff. I've asked the venue to improve their car park. There are only 3 spaces for Blue Badge holders so many of us park in the ordinary spaces and rely on family or friends for help. The toilets are barely adequate. Only one cubicle for disabled people, sharing that with the baby-change table, and needing to ask other customers to open the door while I turn an awkward corner. Clearly not designed by a wheelchair user.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
Some ramps but inside the building, no steps.
Parking & Transport
Poor
Only 3 parking spaces. At this venue there are often 10 or more customers who are obviously disabled.
Accessible Toilets
Average
A single cubicle, awkward for a wheelchair to turn into, shared with the baby-change table. Often that means queueing.
Staff
Good
Friendly and professional. Nearly every staff member talks directly to me, not 'Put her over there,' although that has been said at times.
Additional Information
I'm a regular customer and I'll keep going. Hopefully the improvements I've suggested here will be done.
