Maldon’s Maeldune Heritage Centre Achieves Sensory Accreditation
Published on Friday, 14th April 2023

The Maeldune Heritage Centre in Maldon High Street is the first venue to be awarded a Sensory Access Charter Mark from ECL Sensory Service. Recognising the Centre’s improved access for people with sight and/or hearing impairments.
The Maeldune Heritage Centre hosts the 42ft Maldon Embroidery, along with fascinating displays of local history, historical oral, photographic, and video material. An exciting exhibition programme, Maldon’s Visitor Information Centre, local arts, crafts, and gifts. It is also home to the Maldon’s Society’s visual history touchscreen. This new interactive screen allows visitors to explore over 8,000 images which includes photographs, pen and ink drawings and videos.
Supported by Maldon District Council and Maldon Town Council, the Centre’s team have worked closely with ECL Sensory Service to greatly improve access to the Centre, and its materials, for people with sight and/or hearing impairments. Funded by the Council, the Centre’s staff and volunteers received free expert training from people with lived experience, making the whole team better able to welcome all their visitors.
Lynda O'Brien, Centre Manager said “It is really important to us to make the Centre as accessible as possible to local people and visitors. ECL Sensory Service have been able to guide us on how small improvements can make a really big difference to our visitors. The Maeldune Trustees and Volunteers are very proud to achieve this Sensory Access Charter Mark.”
Over 13 million people in the UK have a sensory impairment.
With an ageing population, it is vital for services and businesses to make sure they are as accessible as possible to people with additional needs. This can help to improve customer loyalty, meet the requirements of the Equality Act, and attract more customers.
The combined spending power of people with a disability is thought to be worth over £250bn, known as the Purple Pound.
Faye Harburt, Head of ECL Sensory Service said “The Maeldune Heritage Centre is an amazing building and great venue for residents and visitors. Supporting them to improve their visitor offer has been a privilege. The Council’s commitment to providing a better quality of life for residents is fantastic, and we are pleased to be working with them to support more businesses in the area.”
Maldon District Council and ECL Sensory Service plan to make the UK’s first Town Guide for people with Sensory Impairments. Providing an itinerary of assured and accredited hospitality, attractions, and venues.
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