Donna Speed, CEO of We the Curious, warmly welcomed attendees to the Access All Areas event, underscoring the powerful collaboration between WECIL and We the Curious. For over seven years, WECIL’s expertise and support have helped shape We the Curious into a more inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can explore, learn, and engage.
This partnership, known as the Inclusive Curious City initiative, aims to make Bristol the world’s most inclusive city for Disabled people and those facing barriers to access. Together, we are breaking down physical and societal barriers so that Disabled people can fully enjoy cultural, learning, and leisure activities that are all too often inaccessible. By working closely on projects like the new Quiet Room, updated exhibit designs, and wayfinding, WECIL and We the Curious are setting new standards for accessibility that will inspire other organisations to follow suit.
Key Improvements Through Partnership
This year, the collaborative work between WECIL and We the Curious was especially visible. Highlights include:
- Quiet Room Creation: A calming, sensory-friendly space where visitors can regulate and feel at ease, designed with input from WECIL’s Listening Partnership.
- Project What If…?: A co-produced exhibit exploring community-driven questions. WECIL’s Curiosity Club and Know Your Rights groups helped select and shape the seven key questions showcased, emphasising topics that resonate deeply with the community.
- Accessibility and Engagement: Updates throughout the venue benefitted from Disability.Inc. consultation, from signage to exhibit layout, prioritise ease of access and inclusivity, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Donna also celebrated the progress made in staff training, with We the Curious recently achieving Level 2 Disability Confident status, a testament to its commitment to workplace inclusivity.
Building an Inclusive Curious City Together
The Inclusive Curious City partnership aims to create lasting impact through co-production and shared advocacy. This collaboration not only enriches the offerings at We the Curious but also pushes forward the goal of making Bristol an accessible and equitable city for all. Through dedicated efforts in accessibility, staffing, and outreach, WECIL and We the Curious are setting an example for inclusive culture across the city.
