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Active Norfolk/News/2025/March/28/Dragons On The Move & Alive West Norfolk: Driving accessibility improvements in 2025

Dragons On The Move & Alive West Norfolk: Driving accessibility improvements in 2025

The DRAGONs (Disability Real Action Group of Norfolk) latest exciting project has been in collaboration with the Alive West Norfolk centres to enhance the accessibility of venues across King’s Lynn & West Norfolk.

This partnership aims to provide in-depth, user-led reviews to help the various Alive centres understand and address potential barriers for people with disabilities or additional needs.

By working together, Alive are showing their full commitment to creating and harbouring a more inclusive and accessible environment for physical activity in Norfolk.

How do the Dragons On The Move reviews work?

Dragons On The Move is a project which works with disability groups, individuals and organisations of all ages who work with us to conduct user led accessibility reviews of venues, clubs and organisations across Norfolk and provide first hand feedback on how to improve.

During these visits, they provide free and impartial reviews that focus both on what venues or clubs are doing well, but also include suggestions on how venues can enhance their accessibility. This collaborative process ensures that feedback is practical, actionable, and inclusive.

What did the Dragons reviews find at Alive West Norfolk?

The reviews at Alive West Norfolk centres conducted by the Dragons highlighted several positives across the venues, such as friendly and approachable staff who are keen to assist and ensure all visitors feel welcome. Additionally, the inclusion of flashing fire alarms at some venues demonstrates a commitment to safety and accessibility; making the centres more inclusive for those with additional hearing requirements.

The group, consisting of Hannah, Heidi and Sarah pointed out that the venues could benefit from the addition of braille signage to help visually impaired visitors navigate their surroundings.

Another recommendation was the installation of induction loops, with included training for staff to support individuals who are hard of hearing, ensuring they can participate more fully in activities and communication at these venues.

Head of Leisure at Alive West Norfolk, Siobhan, was pleased with the review process and offered positive feedback: ‘It’s never at any point felt judgemental. It’s a really open process… This isn’t about finding fault, it’s about improving it and making that user experience better for everyone that comes in.’

‘Looking forwards, we’re really hoping that we can involve the Dragons in all of our facility plans… and get their input from the very start of the project, so that we get that right and it’s built for purpose, fit for purpose and future-proof.’

Check out the case study video above of our visit to Alive Lynnsport to get an idea of what goes into a Dragons review.

Why these accessibility reviews are important across Norfolk

The primary goal of the Dragons accessibility reviews is to remove barriers that prevent people from accessing physical activity in Norfolk.

By identifying areas where venues can improve their accessibility, the collaboration between Dragons On The Move and centres such as Alive will help create an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in sports, fitness, and community activities.

These improvements are crucial for fostering a healthy, active lifestyle for all members of the community.

As Active Norfolk’s Development Officer for Equality and Diversity, Ellen says: ‘Every day is a school day on this project, and [we’re] always learning.’

‘It’s about highlighting the importance of those centres understanding these barriers from the community… and what will help them get involved a bit more.’

View a full list of centres who have been reviewed by the Dragons

The reviews are ongoing, and a comprehensive list of the venues that have been reviewed can be found on the NANSA website.

This list will serve as a valuable resource for those looking to find accessible venues across Norfolk.

Visit the NANSA website

How your centre, club or organisation can get involved with the Dragons work

If you’re interested in getting involved or want to learn more about the Dragons On The Move project, head over to our Dragons On The Move page by clicking the link below.

Whether you’re a venue looking for a review to improve your accessibility, or an individual keen to contribute to the project, there are numerous ways to engage with this important initiative.

Together, we can help make Norfolk a more accessible and inclusive place for everyone.

Find out more about Dragons On The Move

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