“There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus”. Galatians 3:28
At St Martin’s Church, we believe that we are all made in the image of God, and therefore all people are of equal importance and significance, regardless of age, gender, race, ability or disability. Driven by this belief, we are working to become a church for all, a place where everyone is welcome, where everyone can belong and contribute, using their God-given gifts.
The physical access to the building is important as a first step for those with physical disabilities who wish to join us, so please see below for a summary. For further information, please ring:
the office (01223) 519291
or the vicar (01223) 455184.
Accessibility at St Martin’s Church
Parking
There is limited parking outside the building in a small car park and some on-street parking around the church. The car park does not have a disabled parking space, but there is room to drop off/pick up and drive through.
Access to the building
There is a clear paved path to the door. The entrance has no steps and is easily accessed by those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. There is a ramp down into the main area of the church. The hall and dining room are all on one level.
Toilets
There are two toilets for those who are disabled: one near the hall and dining room and one through the church on the lower level at the lounge end. There are signposts to both around the building.
Inside the church
We have recently had some work done to the building, which included removing the pews. We have replaced them with more comfortable chairs, some of which have arms. It is now easier to move around the area and to accommodate those in wheelchairs.
The lighting has also been replaced with a modern system which provides excellent lighting at any time of day.
During the morning service
We have recently installed two video screens which display all the liturgy and song words for the service. However, we recognise that some people will not be able to use them, so we also provide printed copies, including large print versions if required.
A sound system is used to amplify voices and there is a hearing loop installed in the main church area.
During Communion, gluten free bread and non-alcoholic wine are available on request.
The morning service is also live streamed on Zoom. If you wish to join online, please ring the office for a link.
Accessibility at St Thomas’s Hall
Parking
St Thomas’s Hall has a car park to one side of the building, with a gravel surface.
There is parking on the road outside the hall, so it is possible to park outside the door. There are no disabled spaces, although we hope to get one in the near future.
Access to the building
The entrance to the building is paved and all on one level, so easily accessed by those using a wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Toilets
There is a newly refurbished disabled toilet near the main door.
Inside the building
Inside the building it is all on one level. However, there is a ridge across the doorway into the garden, and a couple of steps down to the grass.
There is a sound system to amplify voices and a hearing loop has been installed.
Our evening services are currently in-person only, with no on-line connection.
During Communion, gluten free bread and non-alcoholic wine are available on request.