Parking

There is a free visitors’ car park on the corner of Long Street and Elizabeth Court opposite the Memorial Park. This is a short distance from the office with one designated space for a disabled visitor.  If you are disabled and need to book the parking space please contact the office in advance to make sure that it is available on the day you wish to visit.

Mobility

This is a wheelchair friendly site with a ramp leading from the street up to the main entrance. The inner door is automatic through to the reception, refreshment area and public toilets. All public areas are on the ground floor.

There is an accessible toilet with sliding door near the reception area with a pull-switch alarm for visitors to activate should the assistance of reception staff be needed within the toilet.

All tables are suitable for most standard wheelchairs. There is space at the searchroom tables for a companion to assist.

Most catalogues and indexes are at a medium or low level. Some shelves, especially for library books, are up to 1.8 metres high and others are at floor level.  Please ask staff for assistance if necessary.

Most of our chairs are adjustable and on castors. We recognise these are not suitable for all visitors and an alternative can be easily provided.

Visual

We have two specialist film/fiche reader machines and a high magnification reader for physical records.

Hearing

An induction hearing loop is fitted at both the reception and searchroom counters. Staff have been trained to be responsive to those with hearing problems.

Learning Difficulties

We recognise that the Record Office can be very confusing and using original documents can be difficult. Staff are happy to explain how to use the records but cannot devote a huge amount of time to individual visitors. Please contact us about particular needs and we will try to ensure someone can be available to assist.

Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are always welcome, although we cannot accommodate other dogs or animals in the public rooms.

Breastfeeding

We are happy to welcome people who are breastfeeding and can make a private space available if required. Nappy changing facilities are also available.

Visiting with Children

Children are welcome in all the public areas including the searchrooms. Younger children can get bored so please bring books or toys to entertain them.

We aim to be accessible to all visitors. If you have a particular requirement or we can help to make your visit more comfortable, please contact us using the details below.