Introduction to Vision Awareness for The Royal Parks

Thomas Pocklington Trust Delivers an Introduction to Vision Awareness for The  Royal Parks

On 11th February 2025, Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT) delivered an Introduction to Vision Awareness to two groups of employees at The Royal Parks.

The Royal parks charity cares for the most famous collection of urban parks in the world, providing free access to London’s beautiful, natural, and historic green spaces to help improve everyone’s quality of life and wellbeing.

The sessions were held at the Hyde Park Learning Centre and were organised by May Webber, Access and Engagement Manager at The Royal Parks. Attendees included staff from various departments such as learning & development, recruitment, volunteering, branding, graphic design, horticulture, research, and human resources.

The learning was led by Martin Symcox, Head of Partnerships at TPT, and Charlie Rashbrook, Internship Coordinator at TPT. They were designed to boost participants’ confidence in providing inclusive services for blind and partially sighted visitors.

These interactive sessions provided valuable insights into the barriers and potential solutions that people with vision impairment face when navigating public spaces. Participants engaged in hands-on activities, including an outdoor stroll around the Learning Centre and garden area while wearing simulation spectacles. Guided by colleagues, they experienced first hand, the challenges of limited vision, gaining a deeper understanding of the trust and vulnerability involved in such situations.

Following the activity, discussions encouraged participants to reflect on their experiences and explore ways to enhance accessibility within The Royal Parks. This thought-provoking session fostered positive engagement, with attendees sharing ideas on overcoming difficulties and making The Royal Parks more inclusive.

Reflections from the Event

May Webber, Access and Engagement Manager for The Royal Parks, said:

‘”The training came at a great time for colleagues here at The Royal Parks  as we are on a journey to ensure the parks are welcoming and accessible for all, which includes supporting people who are visually impaired. The training was really well received, and staff who participated feel more confident supporting people who are visually impaired as a result of it.”

Martin Symcox, Head of Partnerships at TPT, said:

“It was truly inspiring to work with such a passionate team at The Royal Parks. These sessions play a vital role in helping staff understand the unique challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people. By experiencing these challenges firsthand, participants gain invaluable insights and practical skills to create more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming park spaces for everyone.”

Charlie Rashbrook, Internship Coordinator at TPT, said:

“It was so great to have such an interactive group who genuinely listened and wanted to make practical changes to improve London’s parks for visually impaired people. I felt that our advice will be implemented and work towards improving park accessibility.”

For more information about partnerships at TPT and to learn more about vision impairment awareness, please contact Jen Sweeney at jen.sweeney@pocklington.org.uk