Information for Visitors with a Disability

This leaflet provides guidelines and information to visitors with a disability. Everything possible will be done to make your visit enjoyable and relaxed, please feel free to contact us if you require further information or support.

Please note that not all disabilities are clearly identifiable, we respectfully request that you approach a member of staff if you need specific support measures put in place to make your visit with us as comfortable as possible. You may wish to contact us prior to your visit, this can be done by contacting the Family Contact Development Officer (FCDO) on 01324 7222374

Access to the establishment – how do I get there by bus or train?

Polmont train station is approximately one mile from the establishment with regular trains running from Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh. There is a taxi rank just outside the train station and the average cost of the journey to the establishment is £2.50 to £3.00. The train station is located at the foot of a steep hill which would prove difficult for a wheel chair user who does not own a electric powered chair or is assisted by a able bodied carer. Regular buses run near by the establishment from Falkirk town centre the local bus station will provide information on timetables and bus routes, local busses running regular include bus numbers 1,2 and 42.

Access to the visitor’s reception is through the main gate at the end of the drive, once you have gained access through the main gate you should come down the path and approach the two doors at the entrance to the main building. All visitors who have a visit with a young adult should use the door on the right hand side; this will lead you to the visitor’s reception area. Official visitors having an appointment with either prison staff or social work should use the door on the left, which will lead them to the main gate reception desk.

Is there any disabled parking available?

Disabled parking is available in front of the main entrance to the establishment, if prior notice is given to staff that you require support due to mobility difficulties it may be possible to provide vehicle access within the establishment. If you feel you would benefit from this service please contact the FCDO prior to your planned visit, it would be useful to give as much notice as possible. The FCDO will consider all requests on individual circumstance and ensure security is not compromised at any time.

I find it difficult to travel but still wish to visit – can I receive longer visits?

It may be possible to book a double visit this can be done through the young adult you are visiting requesting one through the FCDO. Please feel free to call the FCDO if you wish to find out more about visit allocations or any issues you may have with visiting the establishment. Financial assistance is also available to certain visitors please ask for more details when you arrive at the visitors waiting area or ask to speak to the FCDO who is located in the waiting area. If a young adult requests a double visit due to mobility issues or disability your doctor may be contacted to verify any details passed on by the young adult.

Do you have accessible toilets for people with a disability?

The visitors waiting area has disabled access toilets, the staff will be happy to help you with any access difficulties you may have. The toilets are easily accessed from the visit room the staff present will direct you towards the nearest point of entry.

Is there anywhere I can get refreshments?

Refreshments can be bought in the visit room; we have a small snack bar run by the local ladies voluntary service, which is well stocked with hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and sweets. There are also two vending machines within the visit room for use; we would advise if you are using these machines you should have change available. These machines are contracted to an independent company therefore refunds or complaints should be directed to the contact details posted on the side of each machine.

Does the establishment have a hearing loop system?

A hearing loop system is not available, general visitors information is displayed and regular updates are made to ensure visitors are kept up to date with any related issues. Staff will be available at all times to assist any visitor who has a communication problem; we also have staff that can communicate using sign language.

Will I be allowed access with my guide dog?

Access for guide dogs is available, staff will accommodate any requests from the visually impaired and assist with any problems or enquiries they may have. You may wish to contact the FCDO who can with prior knowledge put arrangements in place to support you when attending the establishment and provide ease of access on arrival.

Who do I speak with if I have any enquiries?

On arrival at the establishment you will be met by a staff member who will be happy to answer any of your enquiries, please feel free to raise any issues you may have with them. Everything possible will be done to make your visit to the establishment comfortable, taking account of your disability. Staff will try were possible to accommodate any special needs you may require.

What if I want to make a complaint or compliment, whom do I contact?

Any visitor who wishes to make comment should in the first instance raise their concern with any member of staff, if you are not happy with the outcome of that conversation you should ask to speak with any of the following people:

·        Family Contact Development Officer (FCDO)

·        The officer in charge of the visits area.

·        The duty manager.

You may wish also to direct your comments in writing to the Governor;

This can be done by writing to:

The Governor

HMYOI Polmont

Brightons

01324 711558

Falkirk FK2 OAB