ACCESS GUIDE2019 / 2020

We look forward to welcoming you to the Kia Oval - the home of Surrey County Cricket Club.

We take pride in providing a wide range of facilities and services to enable all supporters to have the best possible experience when visiting the ground.

We have included Testimonials from a number of sup-porters within this Access Guide, so you can read their thoughts on the services we offer.

If you have any queries about accessibility at the Kia Oval, please contact our designated Accessibility Liaison Officer, Theresa Peters.

Theresa PetersAccessibility Liaison Officeraccessibility@surreycricket.com0203 946 0100

IntroductionGetting to the Ground Tickets The Kia Oval ShopWristbandsAccessible Viewing AreaBaby ChangingChanging Places Additional AmenitiesCatering around the Ground Additional InformationOCS Stand Hospitality & ConferencePlanned Improvements for 2019/20The Kia Oval Map

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CONTENTS

Surrey County Cricket Club has worked in conjunction with our Disabled Supporters Association to ensure that the facilities at the Kia Oval are of a standard that provides a safe and enjoyable visit when watching cricket.

This Access Guide has been produced to provide detailed information on the accessibility of the Kia Oval for fans visiting the ground. From getting to the ground, to catering, to facilities, this document ensures supporters are fully briefed on all aspects of their visit to the Kia Oval.

We encourage visitors with accessibility needs to contact our Accessi-bility Liaison Officer – Theresa Peters – prior to your visit, should you have any questions or require additional assistance.

We are here to make your match-day experience as enjoyable as pos-sible. If you, or someone you know, has a disability and would like to visit the Kia Oval prior to a match-day or purchasing tickets, please do get in touch and we will be happy to assist.

To arrange a visit, or speak to a Member of the team, call 0203 946 0100 or email ACCESSIBILITY@SURREYCRICKET.COM.

INTRODUCTION

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RADAR KEYS are available from any steward / or ambassa-dor in the Main OCS or Main Pavilion Reception to those who require them. Or you can purchase your own key from WWW.RADARKEY.ORG

The Kia Oval is located in the heart of London, and is easily accessible from the West End, the City and all South East Counties. BY UNDERGROUNDThe ground is accessible by three tube stations: Vauxhall on the Victoria Line and Oval and Kennington on the Northern Line. Oval Underground station is just 100m from the ground, but does not have lift access. Kennington Station, however, has a lift, and is a 12-minute walk (950 metres) from the Kia Oval. Vauxhall station also has step-free access and is an 8-minute walk (600 metres) from the ground, providing easy access to the Alec Stewart gate. More detailed information on London’s Underground service can be found here: tfl.gov.uk. BY NATIONAL RAILVauxhall station is well served by trains throughout Surrey and Hampshire, as well as from the Greater London area, and is just an 8-minute walk (600 metres) from the ground. The station has a lift to take passengers from ground level to the platforms. More detailed information on the National Rail service can be found here: nationalrail.co.uk/stations/VXH/details. BY BUSRoute numbers 36, 185 and 436 stop outside the ground and other local services stop around the corner. The following buses set down within a 5-minute walk of the ground: 3, 59, 109, 133, 159, 333. All buses operate full wheelchair accessibility services. Whether travelling by Underground, National Rail or Bus, all immediate pavement routes are level and even, with crossing points clearly highlighted.

GETTING TO THE GROUND

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DROP OFFThere are no designated drop-off points at the Kia Oval, but we recommend that fans visiting the Kia Oval are dropped off at either of the main gates pro-viding access to the ground: the John Edrich gate at the Pavilion End and the Alec Stewart gate at the Vauxhall End. Please note that drop off is by prior arrangement only.

PARKINGParking is available for Blue Badge holders on a first-come-first-served basis and can be reserved up to four weeks ahead of the match-day you are attend-ing. Please email ACCESSIBILITY@SURREYCRICKET.COM to reserve parking. On an International match-day, we have a designated area outside of the ground for our guests with accessible needs to park. This area is limited, and holds approximately 20 cars. As this car park is a short walk from the ground, we recommend arranging to be dropped off at either the John Edrich or Alec Stewart gate, and allowing a carer/companion to use the car park. For all domestic games, parking is available within the Kia Oval ground. We have identified that an increasing number of spectators choose to travel around the ground using a mobility scooter, and then transfer to a seat during the match. Please be advised that storage is provided for wheelchairs and scooters in the Pavilion Reception. When accessing the ground via car, please note that the Kia Oval is not with-in the congestion charge area within central London.

GETTING TO THE GROUND

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The Kia Oval Ticket Office is located at the Pavilion End of the ground, next to the Jack Hobbs gate, and is clearly signposted. All windows of the Ticket Office have level access and the windows and shelf are within reach of ambulant disabled persons. There is also a low-level shelf for use by wheelchair users in front of every Ticket Office window. For fans who are deaf and hard of hearing spectators, there is an in-duction loop provided at all Ticket Office windows. Ticket Office staff are well trained, familiar with the layout of the ground and aware of the range of seating areas for spectators with accessible needs, including wheelchair user viewing areas. The Kia Oval’s Disability Policy states that all disabled supporters must pay for a ticket to the game they are attending in their relative age band, whilst their carer/companion will receive a ticket free of charge. The carer’s seat is located alongside the disabled supporters. Tickets for International or domestic fixtures can be purchased via phone on 0203 946 0100, online at KIAOVAL.COM or by emailing TICK-ETS@SURREYCRICKET.COM.

TICKETS

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The Club Shop at the Kia Oval is located within the Pavilion fore-court and has level, paved access. The Club Shop is clearly identified with signage, and access is via double doors which are left open on match-days offer-ing a suitable 800mm width. The left side doorstep has a lev-el threshold, whilst the right side has a single low level stepped threshold, which can reduce access for wheelchair users. Please note that on T20 and international match-days, there are several Club Shops open around the ground which are easier to access for wheelchair users, including within the Jardine Suite of the OCS Stand. This is situated at the Vauxhall end of the ground opposite the Alex Stewart gate and to your left of the OCS reception.

These are identified on the ground map found on page 14 of thisAccess Guide. Please note that there is currently no induction loop within the Club Shops, but this is set to be in-stalled in the near future.

There is also no dropped section for wheelchair users, and the shop counter is single height for the ambulant. Fans can also shop online at SHOP.KIAOVAL.COM.

THE KIA OVAL SHOP

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“The disabled toilet was clean, well designed (I could wash my hands properly and flush easily) and the door easy to open. These things sound petty, but there are so many venues that have terrible disabled loos and facilities yet claim to be disabled friendly.

I just want to thank you all for making it so easy for someone in a wheelchair with severe mobility issues (I am paralyzed from the chest down and have terminal cancer) to have a great day out. Your staff are excellent and actually speak to me and make eye contact, rather than speaking to my wife and carer and treating me as invisible. From booking over the phone, to coming to match day, the whole experience was very positive.

Thanks again and please congratulate yourselves for being a legitmate ‘disabled friendly’ venue,”

- BRUCE ALLARDYCE

The Club became the first cricket ground in the UK to offer a wrist-band of this kind when the scheme was introduced during the 2018 summer.

The free wristband helps fans who may require assistance intro-duce themselves to Club staff on all domestic and international matchdays throughout the summer.

With up to 42 match days at the Kia Oval in 2019, including five World Cup matches and the final Ashes Test, it promises to be one of the busiest years in the history of the Kia Oval with a record number of spectators estimated to come through the gates at the famous old ground.

Surrey County Cricket Club’s Accessibility Liaison Officer Theresa Peters said: “We are constantly striving to improve our standards, facilities and attitudes accordingly.

NON-VISIBLE DISABILITY WRISTBANDS

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“This optional wristband will enable fans with a non-visible disability to easily identify themselves to Club staff on match-day, should they need any assistance, without having to give an explanation or the nature of their disability. Staff can then support the individual in the appropriate way.”

If you require a wristband, please collect it from the Ticket Office or Pavilion Re-ception upon arrival or email ACCESSIBILITY@SURREYCRICKET.COM and one will be posted to you.

ACCESSIBLE VIEWING AREA

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The Kia Oval has a total of 100 accessible seats.

RAISED PLATFORMLocated on the balcony level of the OCS Stand, accessible by lift, there are viewing areas for wheelchair users and their companions which is shaded within the corporate areas. These are located both to the left and right of the stand, in Block B and H with a total of sixteen seats in each. Internal access to these areas is via a lift and an acces sible corridor. The Peter May Garden as an accessible shaded viewing area, this is ac-cessible by a spacious lift, this includes a dedicated accessible toilet to use with a radar key, This has a clear view of the scoreboard and access to a bar. Induction loops have been fitted in Blocks 6-16 to aid fans with a hearing im pairment.

PITCH-SIDE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SEATING AREAThere is clear viewing from several internal upper floor areas of the Micky Stew art Members’ Pavilion, however, there is currently no designated wheelchair ac cessible viewing area with external seating in the upper tiers. These limitations are a result of the historic development of the Pavilion.

Induction loops have been fitted in seats 6-62 on the Terrace and the Shelf of the Members’ Pavilion for hearing deaf and hard of hearing spectators.

Please note that not all seats are under cover, however waterproof ponchos and sun-cream available vis our ambassadors in a purple lanyard.

BABY CHANGING There are seventeen accessible toilets and five baby changing areas on-site at the Kia Oval. These are located:

OCS BLOCKS 3-6There are toilet cubicles located at the rear of Blocks 3 and 6 of the OCS Stand, which both have accessibility facilities.

BEDSER STANDThe Bedser Stand, located next to the Members’ Pavilion, has ac-cessible toilets available at the rear of the stand by entrance 31.

MEMBERS’ PAVILIONThere is a clearly signposted accessible toilet on the ground floor of the Members’ Pavilion. This is located by reception, off an open access corridor with an internal ramp, and is therefore easily acces-sible for wheelchair users. The toilet measures 1.52m x 2.2m and there is an emergency assistance alarm within the cubicle.

“We find the staff and stewards very helpful happy and friendly at all times. In all the sport’s, sport’s club’s and venues I have ever attended. I can honestly say hand on heart that I have never met such a more welcoming, friendly, hardworking and dedicated person to the role of disability liaison officer. No problem is too big. She is a massive asset to Surrey who should be truly thankful that they have her working with them and it’s a shame there are not more like Theresa elsewhere being able to come to the ground because of how accessible it is becoming. Me I am a wheelchair user born with Spina Bifida. love my sport’s and play many sport’s including Disability cricket for England and love it. Sport is my life and it is a pleasure for me and my wife to be a part of Surrey CC.”

- KEITH HANCE09

Baby Changing / Accessible Toilets

People with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as well peo-ple with other physical disabilities such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis often need extra equipment and space to allow them to use the toilets safely and comfortably. These needs are met by Changing Places toilets.

CHANGING PLACES TOILET FACILITY

The Changing Places Toilet is situated in the OCS reception, which is at the Vauxhall end of the ground, on the 1st floor.

This is available to anyone with accessible needs, in the ground on a match day, or a non-match day, it is fitted with a RADAR lock.

If you do not have a Radar key, please go to the OCS reception where one will be provided for you, or you can speak to your nearest ambassador or steward.

Height adjustable changing table and a wide paper towel dispenserTrolley Charger Interface & Sensor set.

Colour contrasted wall mounted and dropdown grab rails are fitted around the toilet.

Bench (adjustable height, adult size, free standing).

• Hoist (ceiling)• Peninsular toilet• Non-slip floor• Emergency alarm• Paper roll

The facility also includes a sink NL

CHANGING PLACES

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Within the Pavilion, Members have access to a wide range of rooms offering different catering services.

1ST FLOOR: THE LONG ROOM AND TEA ROOMThe Kia Oval’s famous Long Room is easily accessible for wheelchair users via the lift on the ground floor, by the Members’ Pavilion reception. The Tea Room, located next to the Long Room, is also very accessible though there is no low counter for wheelchair users.

3RD FLOOR: PAVILION RESTAURANTThe Alcock Room on the third floor of the Pavilion is the location of the Mem bers’ Pavilion restaurant and offers fantastic views of the match action whilst dining. The restaurant is accessible via split-level stairs, or lift for wheelchair users and those with accessible needs. There are also several bars located on the third floor. Advanced booking is essential to dine in the Alcock Room.

4TH FLOOR: THE 100 HUNDREDS BARThe 100 Hundreds Bar is a celebration of the careers of the Surrey players that have reached a hundred First-Class centuries. The bar offers Members an alter-native to the Alcock Room, as a relaxed environment to dine. The 100 Hundreds Bar serves a range of hot and cold food on a match-day, and the cafeteria-style restaurant does not require bookings. Members are served on a first-come, first-served basis. The 100 Hundreds Bar has a low counter, and is wheelchair ac-cessible via a lift.

FIFTH FLOOR: THE HORNS TAVERNLocated on the top floor of the Pavilion, the Horns Tavern offers a selection of alcoholic beverages including an extensive wine list, as well as non-alcoholic beverages. The Horns Tavern does not have a low counter, but is easily accessi-ble to wheelchair users via a lift.

ACCESSIBLE AMENITIES

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The Kia Oval is proud to offer a range of food and drink outlets including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Our catering areas can become very busy during peak pe-riods, and staff and stewards are always available to help when required. Fans are also welcome to bring their own food into the ground on any match-day. Our permanent kiosks have low counter facilities so that they are easily accessed by wheelchair users.

CATERING AROUND THE GROUND

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“I have nothing but praise for the stewards and everyone that helps visitors like myself who are reliant on using a wheelchair. In particular, no one could be more helpful, cheerful, supportive and responsive than you, and I know I’m not alone in being very grateful for all that you do on behalf of those of us who have particular accessibility challenges.

When I arrive at the Oval on major match days, it’s always helpful that stew-ards look out for wheelchair users and offer to help. It makes it much safer for me and others when they walk ahead and make sure that other visitors to the

ground do not bump into me.”

PHILIP ANDERSON

Here at the Kia Oval we are passionate about delivering equality to our custom-ers visiting the ground.

As we are constantly striving to improve our standards, facilities and attitudes in relation to accessibility, we have a non-visible dis ability wristband. This optional wristband enables fans with a non-visi ble disability to easily identify themselves to Club staff on a match-day, should they need any assistance, without having to give an explanation or the nature of their disability. Staff can then support that individual in the appropriate way.

This is a great initiative which demonstrates the care and attention the Club is taking in ensuring every fan has the best possible match-day experience. If you require a wristband, please collect it from the Ticket Office or Pavilion Reception upon arrival or e-mail ACCESSIBILITY@SUR REYCRICKET.COM in advance of the fixture you are attending, and we can arrange for one to be posted to you.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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“Often one of the most daunting places for a disabled person to be is a sports venue. This is because these venues are busy and hectic and thereby intimidating. The Kia Oval Accessibility Team, has been instrumental in getting disabled people into the sport of cricket, by way of making access easy, by making conveniences accessible, and by creating a team of people who are happy and willing to help… this is of huge value to all disabled people who want to go there… and a credit to the Kia Oval!!!!”

- BILL HAWKES New lift in the Pavilion’s Reception

All ambassadors wear a purple lanyard and are trained in disability aware-ness and etiquette. There is always an ambassador present to provide help for anyone with accessible needs, before, during or after the game. Free Commentary Radios are available for blind and / or visually impaired spectators, please collect this on the match-day either from the Ticket Office or the Pavilion Reception. The public-address system will give live scores and updates of key developments during the match. As can be seen on the Kia Oval ground map on page 14, there is a des-ignated first-aid area with trained medical staff, readily available to assist should you have any problems on a match-day. Please note that storage is available within the ground for wheelchairs and scooters if required. If you require the use of a wheelchair these are avail-able from the main reception or the Medical Room. Please note this is for emergency use only due to insurance restrictions. If you own a wheelchair please bring it on the day as it can be stored in the Pavilion Reception. Should you have any specific requirements, or need help buying tickets, please contact ACCESSIBILITY@SURREYCRICKET.COM or call 0203 946 0100. We would love to hear your feedback on visiting the Kia Oval, please con-tact ACCESSIBILITY@SURREYCRICKET.COM.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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“Ground access in my wheelchair … excellent , easy Peter May stand perfect, excellent facilities Staff / stewards . always very helpful and polite , very friendly... Accessibility Liaison Officer always helpful with time for everybody, always with a smile. I was very surprised to find how accessible the club is with excellent disabled facilities … very

impressed “

- JEREMY CHAUNDY

The Reception within the OCS stand has a counter that is suitable for wheelchair users, as well as an induction loop installed for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The area has been designed with colours, finishes and textures to provide contrast for the blind and partially sighted spectators.

Three passenger lifts on both the east and west sides of the building pro-vide easy access to all floors of the OCS stand which is used for hospitality on match-days, Debenture Members and some Members’ areas.

The lifts within the OCS stand are complete with voice notification and have a mirror on the rear wall which allows wheelchair users to reverse out from the lift safely and easily.

From the foyer, visitors can access an accessible toilet which also in-cludes a baby changing facility. An accessible toilet is also availa ble on each floor accessible via the lift. Radar keys are available from the OCS reception.

Within the Hospitality Suites the majority of hospitality areas have bars with counter tops suitable for wheelchair users and wheel-chair access out on to the terraces.

All steps within the OCS stand have highlighted edges to assist people who are partially sighted when accessing different floors

OCS STAND HOSPITALITY AND CONFERENCE

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“I believe we are one of the most accessi-

bility friendly grounds and that is, I consider

down to the Club and the interest you have

taken in disability issues.”

- JON PER

The Kia Oval and Surrey County Cricket Club are continuously working to improve our accessible facilities on-site to ensure fans have the best experience possible when vis-iting the ground.

Currently, the Club are implementing the following as part of our ongoing developments:

• Installing low-level coat hooks within all accessible toilets around the Kia Oval• Undertaking an annual disability survey to gain feedback on how we can improve

our offering for disabled supporters• Installing full-length mirrors in all accessible toilets around the Kia Oval• We are increasing the number of RADAR keys we have on-site at the Kia Oval, to

allow easier access to our accessible toilets. If you don’t have a RADAR key, please speak to the nearest steward or come to the Pavilion reception where one will be provided for you.

PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS FOR 2019/20

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LOCK LAKERSTAND

PETER MAY STAND

NORTHERN LINE

SHOP

VICTORIA LINE

MEMBER

S PAVI

LION

LOCK LAKER ENTRANCE

STAND ENTRANCES

SHUTER GATE

CHANGING PLACES

ACCESSIBLE SEATING

TOILETS

ACCESSIBLE LIFT

FIRST AID

DROP OFF POINT

DEBENTURE & MEDIA ENTRANCE

CLUB SHOP

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