The Maeldune Heritage Centre, in Maldon High Street, was recently the first venue to be awarded a 'Sensory Access Charter Mark' from Essex Cares Limited (ECL).

Following a fundraising effort by the Maldon Society, a new interactive screen has been installed to allow visitors to explore more than 8,000 images, including photographs, drawings, and videos.

The accreditation, presented by ECL's Sensory Service, recognises the Centre's improved access for people with sight and/or hearing impairments.

The Maeldune Heritage Centre also hosts the 42-foot Maldon Embroidery and fascinating displays of local history, along with Maldon's Visitor Information Centre.

Supported by Maldon's Town and District councils, the Centre's team has collaborated with ECL's Sensory Service to greatly improve accessibility to the Centre and its materials for people with disabilities.

Funded by the Council, the Centre's staff and volunteers received free expert training from those living with sight or hearing impairments, making the whole team better equipped to welcome all visitors.

Lynda O'Brien, Manager at the Maeldune Centre, said: "It is really important to us to make the Centre as accessible as possible to local people and visitors.

"ECL Sensory Service has guided us on how small improvements can make a really big difference to our visitors. The Maeldune Trustees and Volunteers are very proud to achieve this Sensory Access Charter Mark."

Representatives from ECL, the Maeldune Centre, and the Maldon Society officially marked the accrediation with a ceremony. (Photo: Maldon District Council)

More than 13 million people in the UK have a sensory impairment. The combined spending power of people with a disability is thought to be worth over £250 billion, known as the 'Purple Pound'.

Faye Harburt, Head of ECL Sensory Service, said: "The Maeldune Heritage Centre is an amazing building and great venue for residents and visitors. Supporting them to improve their visitor offer has been a privilege.

"The Council's commitment to providing a better quality of life for residents is fantastic, and we are pleased to be working with them to support more businesses in the area."

Maldon District Council and ECL Sensory Service plan to create the UK's first Town Guide for people with Sensory Impairments. It is set to provide an itinerary of assured and accredited hospitality, attractions, and venues.

The Maeldune Heritage Centre is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 11am until 4pm. For more information, visit the Centre's website.

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