Explore Richmond's accessible spaces this Disability History Month

This UK Disability History Month, learn about accessible spaces and activities across the borough, designed to ensure residents with disabilities of all ages can benefit from and enjoy them.

Councillor Margaret Dane, Disability Champion, said: "When you look at the world through the lens of Disability Challenges, you see it differently. I would like to see design of communities, all facilities and services of every kind, to be such that it is never a impediment to anyone living to their full potential. Shining light for greater awareness and appreciation of all of our community members will enrich everyone’s lives."

Friendly Parks for All

The innovative model of accessible Friendly Parks for All has been developed in six parks in the borough. It aims to improve the impact, reach and quality of access to parks and open spaces in the borough to residents who experience barriers to access.

The initiative also offers a variety of regular monthly activities across the borough including wellbeing walks, an accessible walk and accessible litter picks.

Recently, we worked with Mencap at Cambridge Gardens in East Twickenham to carry out improvements such as a walking trail, outdoor gym, entrance markers, and accessible raised beds as part of a community growing space.

Our inclusive parks and facilities

Following the 2023 Parks Satisfaction Survey, we’ve introduced accessible roundabouts, trim trails, play panels and more to make local parks welcoming for all.

Our borough’s parks and open spaces already include a range of inclusive play features, and we’re continuing to expand this so even more residents can enjoy them.

Accessible allotment plots

Together with local partners, we’re ensuring everyone can enjoy gardening. Our accessible allotment plots are designed to meet the needs of residents with mobility challenges, chronic pain, or other conditions so everyone can grow, harvest, and enjoy the season.

Accessible allotment plots are available at Hartford Avenue, Briar Road, Hatherop Road, and Bushy Park, with new raised beds underway at Walnut Tree allotments.

Inclusive activities and volunteering

With support from the Council, local initiative Let’s Go Outside and Learn invites everyone to get involved in conservation and community projects. All abilities and levels of experience are valued. Students receiving learning support and residents alike have contributed to award winning projects, showing how inclusive volunteering can bring people together and make a lasting difference.

Additionally, free accessible cycling sessions are held regularly in Kneller Gardens in West Twickenham. Our Richmond upon Thames Inclusive Sport and Exercise programme also offers inclusive activities for people of all ages, including those with diverse learning needs and disabilities, such as football, swimming, dance sessions and more.

You can check out the London Sport map for activities that meet your needs, simply filter by your area, availability, accessibility needs and location to explore free and affordable ways to stay active that fit your lifestyle.