Access for everyone
Ever found yourself lost in an unfamiliar area, not knowing which way to turn? That feeling of being vulnerable is familiar to people suddenly affected by disability either personally or through friends and family. It's not always easy to find advice and information and many people are often left feeling alone and isolated.
On this page, you will find some useful information and services available in Basingstoke and Deane.
On this page
Disability signpost service
The Disability Signpost Service helps guide disabled people, their carers, friends and family to appropriate information and advice. Information on a wide range of topics related to disability including transport, benefits, sports, housing, carers and volunteering is available.
The service is provided by Basingstoke and District Disability Forum (BDDF) and is available at different venues, please follow us on Facebook @bddforum for dates and locations.
To receive a monthly newsletter or for further information, visit The Disability Forum website; email them at info@bddf.org.uk; or phone 01256 423869.
Basingstoke Connect (previously Dial-a-Ride)
Basingstoke Connect is a door to door transport service for anyone who finds it difficult to use ordinary buses. The minibuses are specially adapted with handrails, low steps and ramps for people using walking frames or wheelchairs. You can use the service if you have a mobility or sensory impairment. You don't have to be a wheelchair user. The cost of the service is based on a system similar to bus fares.
To register and make bookings call 01256 462101.
AccessAble
We have partnered with AccessAble which provides access information for over 500 venues in the area through funding from the council.
This is a free service and no registration is required. If you see the AccessAble logo on any of our webpages, click on it to find up to date access information about that service or venue.
To view the accessibility information, visit the AccessAble website.
Shopmobility
Shopmobility Basingstoke provides facilities for those with mobility issues. It has a wide range of scooters and wheelchairs available for all abilities.
Their friendly staff and volunteers will help you choose the right equipment and explain how to use it. Registration is quick and easy. Equipment can be hired for a small fee, either for the day or for holidays or weekends away.
You can find Shopmobility in Lower Church Street near the centre of Basingstoke. Follow the signs by road or call them on 01256 476066. If you are using public transport, they may be able to meet you with a scooter or wheelchair.
View the disabled access guide for Shopmobility on the AccessAble website.
Further advice and support
- Registering as disabled
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Disability Registration cards are free and are valid for life. They are an easy way of proving you have a disability and need to use facilities provided for disabled people.
- Enham Trust
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From housing and employment to personal development and care, Enham delivers a wide range of essential services. They provide choice and empower people to make decisions about their own lives.
- Mencap
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Mencap is the UK's leading learning disability charity working with people with a learning disability and their families and carers.
- Directgov
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The GOV.UK website offers information, advice and support about:
- employment
- finances
- home and housing options
- education and training
- rights and obligations
- motoring and transport.
- Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee
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Information can be obtained on:
- air travel
- buildings
- buses
- education
- maritime
- motoring
- taxis/PHVs
- trains
- door to door and personal mobility.
The DPTAC website provides information on, access for all and the DPTAC access directory.
- Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA)
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BVA is the professional help and advice centre for voluntary organisations in Basingstoke and Deane. Their ‘Merlin’ directory shows what help is available from the voluntary and community sector in the borough.
Find out more about the local volunteering opportunities available in the area on the Basingstoke Voluntary Action website or phone 01256 423816.
- Down's Heart Group
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A charity offering support and information relating to heart conditions associated with Down's Syndrome.
For further information, visit the Down's Heart Group website.
- Sensory loss
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For further help and advice please visit Hampshire County Council's page on sensory loss.
- Learning disabilities
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Hampshire County Council's Adult Services offers a number of services to help people with learning disabilities and their carers.
Visit Hampshire County Council's pages on Learning Disabilities for more help and advice
- Shaw Trust
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Shaw Trust provides training and work opportunities for people disadvantaged in the labour market due to disability, ill health or other social circumstances. They are the largest UK provider of employment services for disabled people. Visit the Shaw Trust website to find out what they can offer you.
- Children with special needs/autism/sensory issues
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How to Calm a Child with Autism
Create a Sensory Safe Yard for Children with Special Needs
Estate Planning for Parents of Kids with Autism