Accessibility
Guide Dogs Training
This year 10 members of our team have completed specialist training from sight loss charity Guide Dogs, enabling them to better support visitors with a vision impairment.
Carole Butler, sighted guide training officer for Guide Dogs, who led the training, said: "People with sight loss often come up against access challenges when they’re out and about.
"These can stop them from going to the places they want, when they want, or mean their experience of visiting somewhere isn’t as positive as it could be. It’s great that the Seal Sanctuary recognises this and has worked with us to train up staff members to be sighted guides. Being able to offer this type of support to visitors with sight loss will make a huge difference and have a direct impact on their experience.
During the training, staff paired up to practise guiding one another under blindfolds, describing surroundings and obstacles out loud.
They also learned about common eye conditions and tried ‘simulation spectacles’ to better understand how visitors might see the world.
Claire Harriman, head of operations, safety and security at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, said: "Our staff found the training very interesting and hugely informative, giving us an insight into a small part of the world of a vision-impaired guest or colleague. We are all committed to making visits more inclusive and safer following our session.
This year we have introduced Sanctuary Sensory Bags.
Our sensory bags are designed to support guests, helping to create a more comfortable and inclusive experience across the sanctuary.
Thoughtfully curated, each bag contains a selection of items to assist with sensory regulation, communication, and moments of calm. Inside, guests will find ear defenders to help reduce surrounding noise, as well as feelings cards to support non-verbal communication with our team. There are also tactile items such as a squeezy ball, worry stone, and a variety of fidget toys, offering simple ways to manage stress and stay grounded.
For those who prefer a quieter, more mindful pace, a magnifying glass encourages gentle exploration of the natural environment, from woodland areas to grassy meadows. Together, these resources are intended to empower guests to engage with the sanctuary in a way that feels right for them, ensuring everyone can enjoy a positive and supported visit.
