Special Events for all

In the planning stages, explore with the people concerned any particular implications above and beyond what would normally be provided to ensure that any person with a disability is able to fully participate.

Baptisms

• If using a Baptismal pool to fully immerse people, are people with mobility difficulties or wheelchair users able to access the tank without difficulty or with support? Can you use an alternative venue, such as a local wheelchair-accessible swimming pool?
• As with any church service, are the venue and event fully accessible, providing an induction-loop system for hearing-aid users and large print materials? 
• Can the service be seen by all attendants, wherever they may be seated? 
• Be open to explaining what is happening for those who are blind or do not understand.

Weddings

• As with any church service, are the venue and event fully accessible, providing an induction-loop system for hearing-aid users and large print materials?
• If a member of the couple to be married is disabled, can you explore with them any alternative procedures that may tailor the service more to them? 
• Weddings often utilise additional areas of church e.g. church grounds for photos, church vestry for signing the register etc. Have all areas that will be used been checked with consideration for level access, colour contrast, handrails, movable items, alternative options etc?

Funerals

• Such occasions may bring into the church a potentially increased number of older and disabled people. Can your facilities provide for this in terms of space, accessible toilets, appropriate seating, signage etc.?
• Check with the family that any person with a learning disability is aware of what has happened, and be prepared to speak with the individual yourself before the service.  Do not assume that the person would not want to attend the service!
• Consider beforehand what restrictions there may be in terms of the venue and either plan around those restrictions or pre-empt them.
• Crematoriums are legally bound to be equipped with an induction-loop system for hearing-aid users and be accessible; churches may not be equally accessible. 
• If conducting a burial, be aware that you may need to travel across grass and gravel to get to the grave side, which may pose difficulties for wheelchairs.