THE KILN ROOMS

Accessibility Policy – The Kiln Rooms Ltd

The Kiln Rooms aims to make its ceramics studios as welcoming and inclusive as reasonably possible. We recognise our responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 to consider and provide reasonable adjustments for disabled people where appropriate. This policy explains how we approach accessibility across our four studio locations, what we are able to offer, and where there are practical limits. It is written for staff, members, and studio users who may have access requirements or disabilities.

Studios covered by this policy
  • Bellenden Road – Part-time membership / Classes / Drop-ins
  • Copeland Park – Full-time membership / Classes / Drop-ins
  • Farringdon – Classes / Drop-ins
  • Peckham Levels – Classes / Drop-ins / Work Exchange
How our studios operate

We run four ceramics studios which operate through structured access models rather than unrestricted public access. Studios are used through membership, taught courses, and supervised drop-in sessions for people already enrolled on a course and familiar with the studio. Numbers are kept to a safe and manageable level so that studios do not feel overcrowded and staff are able to manage the space and the people using it effectively. All studios operate as working ceramics environments and must meet health and safety requirements at all times.

Studios and physical access

Accessibility varies across our four studios. All studios can be accessed step-free, although routes, entrances, and internal layouts may differ. In some cases, alternative entrances may need to be used.

  • Peckham Levels is currently our most wheelchair-accessible studio and is often the most suitable option for those with higher mobility-related access needs.
  • Other studios may have tighter doorways, more limited internal space, or facilities that are not suitable for all users.

Specific access information for each location is available on our website or on request.

Ceramics-specific considerations

Ceramics takes place in a working studio environment and can involve physically active tasks including:

  • Lifting and wedging clay
  • Repetitive hand and arm movements• Cleaning work areas
  • Reaching shelves or materials
  • Working around studio equipment

Studios may involve typical workshop conditions such as wet floors, heavy materials, or hot equipment. Our spaces can at times be noisy due to general activity and background music may be playing.

While a studio may be physically accessible, some activities may still present challenges depending on individual needs.  Any adjustments made must remain compatible with safe studio operation. We strongly encourage advance contact so we can discuss suitability and reasonable adjustments further.

Reasonable adjustments

We consider reasonable adjustments on a case-by-case basis, taking a practical, flexible approach where possible. Adjustments may include:

  • Identifying the most suitable studio location
  • Adjusting workstation layout or positioning where possible
  • Providing assistance with lifting or reaching, subject to staffing and safety considerations
  • Allowing additional time during supervised sessions
  • Discussing quieter sessions where available

​Certain adjustments​ may not be possible due to space, staffing, or safety requirements.

Staff support and assistance

Staff aim to support people where reasonably possible. This may include assisting with lifting clay, wedging, cleaning, or reaching shelves, depending on availability and safety considerations. Support is shared across all studio users and cannot be guaranteed on an individual or continuous basis.

Staff are not able to provide:

  • Personal care
  • Toileting assistance
  • Medical supervision
  • Continuous one-to-one support
Memberships, courses and drop-ins

Courses and supervised drop-ins always have a teacher or technician present, although support is shared among studio users. Copeland Park membership is intended for independent makers who are comfortable working safely without supervision. Staff may not always be onsite, and the same level of support available during taught sessions cannot be provided.

Emergency procedures

All studio users must be able to evacuate the building safely in the event of an emergency. If you have mobility-related access needs or would require assistance during evacuation, please contact us in advance so we can discuss appropriate arrangements. Emergency procedures may vary by location depending on the building and its management.

Advance communication

We ask anyone with access requirements or disabilities to contact us before booking a course or joining membership. Early communication helps us discuss needs, identify the most suitable studio, and consider possible adjustments where appropriate.

Email: info@thekilnrooms.com

How we consider access needs

Access needs are considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account:

  • Studio layout
  • The nature of the activity involved
  • Staffing levels
  • Health and safety requirements
  • Building constraints
  • The experience of others using the space

We aim to engage in open and respectful dialogue to identify practical solutions wherever possible.

Our commitment

While we may not be able to meet every need in every situation, we are committed to:

  • Acting in good faith
  • Being open and transparent
  • Making reasonable efforts where possible
  • Treating everyone with respect and care

Last reviewed: March 2026