Accessibility

We want to ensure that Federal Conferences are accessible to all.  With this in mind, please note the following:

• The Bournemouth International Centre is 7 minutes taxi ride (1.2 miles) from Bournemouth train station.  The Highcliff Marriott Hotel (official HQ hotel) is 7 minute walk (0.3 miles) to the Bournemouth International Centre (via the cliff path).
• All official venues are wheelchair accessible including the availability of wheelchair accessible bedrooms (subject to availability).
• Access to the stage in the auditorium is via a ramp.  The chair of the session will ensure wheelchair users are called in plenty of time to access the stage.
• Sign language interpretation during all auditorium sessions; a number of seats are reserved for attendees using this service, at the front of the auditorium.
• Induction loop system in the auditorium, which can be linked to hearing aids.
• Reserved seats at the front of the auditorium for those who would benefit from being closer to the stage due to a visual or hearing impairment or other access needs.
• A limited number of electric scooters are available for use around the conference venue – please note that they need to be returned each evening. To request the use of an electric scooter, please contact: conferences@libdems.org.uk
• Car Park - if you are unable to use public transport and do drive to the venue, there is a multi-storey car park for 644 cars at the BIC.  Please collect a ticket upon arrival and pay when you leave.  It is open 24 hours a day and has accessible spaces on levels 1, 2 and 3.  Please visit: https://www.bic.co.uk/parking for rates.  For further parking information contact Bournemouth Borough Council Car Parks on: 01202 128900
• Agenda and directory - this will available in clearprint and plaintext versions on our website from mid/ end August
• Carers can attend on a complimentary basis.  Please email the Conference Team for a code to register on a complimentary basis: conferences@libdems.org.uk
• For any help you may need onsite, please go to Info Desk in the main lobby and our team of stewards will be happy to assist.
• A Quiet room is available for those needing a quiet space or for prayer or meditation.  The room is the Purbeck on the ground floor of the BIC.  Please be respectful of others using the room. 
• We have established a Conference Access Fund to improve accessibility for members attending conference.  The fund consists of a contribution from the conference budget as well as donations from party members. Contributions made by members are ring-fenced.  For details or to donate, please go to: www.libdems.org.uk/access-fund
• Access forum - this is a fringe event held at every Autumn Conference (see fringe listings in the directory once published).  This is your chance to help improve disability access at future conferences. Join an informal discussion and tell us - what else can be done?
• If you are unable to travel, we have an online option where you can purchase an online ticket for £25 and join the auditorium sessions and vote on motions from the comfort of your own home.

If you have any other accessible requirements, please email: conferences@libdems.org.uk and we will do our best to accommodate