Inclusivity & Accessibility
Our pledge to Inclusivity & Accessibility
At Pioneer Centre, we believe that the joy of outdoor activities should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, ability, or circumstance. Our commitment to inclusivity is at the core of our values, and we strive to create an environment that welcomes individuals from all walks of life. We are dedicated to providing a welcoming space for everyone. We are passionate about breaking down barriers and ensuring that the thrill of outdoor activities is within reach for all.
- Positive attitude, training and awareness: Our team undergoes regular training and is dedicated to meet the diverse needs of all participants, fostering a non-judgemental environment of encouragement and support.
- Affordable access: We offer competitive prices throughout our offers, with seasonal prices for school groups and special packages like Adventure weekends to ensure that cost is not a barrier.
- Financial support and fundraising events: In cooperation with our charity NAYC we are committed to find funding opportunities like our PotentiALL Bursary fund to support those who need it the most, so that no child misses out. We regularly apply through various funding schemes for special equipment to adapt activities for individuals with varying needs.
- Venue spaces & accommodation: Our venue is all under one roof and on the ground floor. We also have a number of universally accessible bedrooms with wet room facilities.
Activities for all:
At Pioneer Centre we believe that every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, deserves the opportunity to engage in our activities. We offer many sessions that are accessible and don’t need an alternative method to run.
It is possible for the wheelchair user to be included in each timeslot by moving from one group to another where necessary and have a second chance to take part in some activities. Groups must remain within normal risk assessment ratios for this to be permitted.
The following activities have an alternative accessible option.
Wheelchair Abseiling Tower
Our abseiling tower is designed for participants who use wheelchairs to feel comfortable and secure abseiling down the 45-degree ramp in their own wheelchair or in our specialist wheelchair. Participants can control their own speed as they descend alongside a qualified instructor.
Wheelchair Zipwire
Participants get hoisted up to our Zipwire platform and transferred onto the Zipwire system smoothly, allowing them to take part in this high-octane activity. Specially trained instructors will lower the participant back into their chair when they reach the brake pad at the bottom.
Wheelchair Trek course
Participants get hoisted up to our Trek-course platform and transferred onto two safety lines so that they can take part in our most sought-after traversing activity. An instructor will accompany you around the eight different at height obstacles. Guide your way through the tunnels, over the wobbly logs and much more. To finish, the instructors will transfer you back to the comfort of your own chair using the specially designed winch system.
Wheelchair Climbing and High ropes
Embrace the challenge of climbing and high ropes using our pulley system which is designed to lessen the load on the climbers’ arms and legs whilst climbing. Our hoist system allows participants to be lifted out of their wheelchair and taken to the top of a climbing wall. There is an option for the participant to lift themselves with a handle added into the system.
Accessible Archery
Our fully equipped archery ranges ensure that everyone can participate in learning how to shoot a bow and practise to improve their skills. Our self-standing bow allows participation for anyone who might not be able to support the weight of a bow themselves and our self-standing crossbow allows for everyone to take part no matter the ability, along with more aids and extra equipment you can use to master the art of getting the gold.
Accessible Fencing
We have three different types of foil that can be chosen from: metal, plastic and foam. After picking a foil, a wheelchair user can be paired with another wheelchair user, or a carer/teacher/peer sitting in a chair.
Accessible Caving
Explore our man-made caving systems accessible for all with the ability to support their upper body to some extent. Our 12 wheeled manoeuvrable seat allows for guests to be pulled around the system by an instructor.
Accessible Orienteering
Try our wheelchair accessible orienteering routes, designed to provide challenge to groups of people whilst being entirely wheelchair friendly across the different terrain of our 25-acre site.
*Please note, participants for these activities ideally should be able to support their upper body (specifically head and neck) to some extent to avoid unnecessary strain on their upper spine.
Please contact us to discuss your group / individual requirements. Advance notice will be required to provide activities.
