Enable Ability is proud to announce the first in a series of accessibility-focused filming sessions around the city, filming directly linked to the Awards for All grant awarded by the local authority.
On Friday 3rd October, our InterActiv team joined Project Leader James and the Over 25 Co-Production & Social Group at Casemates Studios & Cafe in Hilsea to capture the venue using 360-degree immersive technology. This marks the beginning of a wider programme where a number of public venues across Portsmouth will be filmed and assessed for accessibility, subject to budget and available funding. Each film will be paired with a detailed accessibility report, helping people with disabilities, especially those with anxiety or sensory needs, to explore new spaces virtually before visiting in person.
The inspiration for this project came directly from the adults with disabilities in the Over 25 Co-Production & Social Group. They identified that being able to see what it’s like in advance would reduce anxiety, build confidence and make community spaces more accessible. With guidance and support from James as Project Leader, their idea has now grown into a practical programme that will bring lasting benefits across the city.
This project represents much more than accessibility. Every filming session offers young people on the InterActiv programme the chance to develop real skills in filming, editing and digital production, skills that are essential stepping stones towards meaningful employment. At the same time, the adult co-production group involved in the project are given a voice to influence positive change in how local venues welcome and support visitors with additional needs.
The Awards for All funding is helping us break down barriers and show what true inclusion looks like in practice. Casemates Studios & Café is the first of several venues set to benefit, the resulting films and reports will be hosted on the Enable Ability website and shared with the community, with talks emerging to show the interactive videos on the Guildhall Square big screen.
But while this project is a powerful step forward, InterActiv itself is at a critical point. As a service, InterActiv has for years provided free work experience programmes for young people with disabilities, who are not in education or employment. By combining training, digital innovation and inclusion, the programme is changing lives, but it urgently needs further financial support to continue.
This first filming session demonstrates what is possible when the community, local authority and voluntary sector work together. With further backing, we can expand this work, empower more young people, and build a more accessible city for everyone.
If you would like to support this vital work, donations can be made through our homepage at enableability.org.uk
A 360 degree virtual tour is available to accompany this accessibility report using the link below. It provides a visual overview of the space and can be used as part of preparation or reassurance ahead of a visit.
Click here for a Virtual Tour of Casemates
