Liverpool ONE launches two new initiatives – a digital directory detailing the accessibility of all its shops and venues and a navigation app for the visually impaired. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool ONE is launching two new initiatives to improve accessibility at the complex for disabled visitors and improve navigation for the visually impaired.
Around 40% of households across Liverpool city region have at least one person with a disability. Liverpool ONE wants to send a clear message that its shops and venues are accessible to as many people as possible.
Sociability will help disabled people find accessible places. On this initial pilot the majority of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues at Liverpool ONE have been visited to assess their accessibility features and create an online accessibility directory.
This includes information on toilets and access to stores, allowing visitors to filter results based on their specific needs, such as seating availability and accessible toilet provisions.
Matt Pierri, founder and chief executive at Sociability, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Liverpool ONE to make it easier than ever for disabled people to find accessible places to eat, shop and socialise.
“Sociability takes away the stress and anxiety of planning an accessible day out – helping more disabled people to enjoy all that Liverpool ONE has to offer, and to spend more time with the people they love, in the places they want to visit.”
Launching alongside Sociability will be Waymap, which is the first navigation app of its kind to work indoors, outdoors and even deep underground, without GPS.
With step-by-step guidance and a level of accuracy it ensures that all users – including those with visual impairments – are able to confidently navigate any venue.
Built primarily for blind and partially sighted people by a team which includes members of the visually impaired community, the application also includes a step-free access option, to additionally assist visitors with reduced mobility.
Dr Tom Pey, chief executive and founder of Waymap, who is also blind, said: “We’re incredibly proud to help ensure that all visitors, especially those with visual impairments, can navigate Liverpool ONE independently and confidently.”
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Visitors are encouraged to download the Sociability and Waymap apps before their next visit to Liverpool ONE to experience the new features firsthand.
Donna Howitt, place strategy director at Liverpool ONE, added: “Liverpool ONE is a destination that has something for everyone, and we are committed to supporting our local communities and everyone having the best possible experience while they visit.”