Compassionate and affirming people come in all sorts of types. At Augustine you are free to be yourself. You are free to choose which parts of the service to participate in and don’t have to do anything that you don’t want to. For example, you can decide to not shake hands, greet people or sing.
We have provisions in place for a variety of access needs, described below, and all are welcome to attend at any time. If you would like to discuss individual arrangements, please feel free to contact us and we will work with you. Child-specific information is available here and LGBT+ information available here.
Physical Access
The main entrance to the church is up four steps with a handrail. Step free access is available via a door to the right of the building, please ring the bell at the base of the central steps for attention. Please note that there is a tight turn in the step free access passageway that may not be suitable for all mobility aids. If this is the case for you, we can put out an alternative portable ramp at the front of the building.
Access to the Sanctuary and ground floor level for Sunday services is step free and there is a ramp to enable access on to the dais/stage. There is no need to make advance arrangements.
There is lift access to the lower levels of the building (for events held in Mull and the Studio). If you require use of the lift, please contact us in advance so that we can ensure that the caretaker is available to assist.
A compact accessible toilet is available on both the ground floor and lower level. Please be aware that these toilets are not accessible for all wheelchair users. The toilet on the ground floor (Sanctuary level) has a manoeuvring space of 1.2m2 and the toilet on the lower level has a manoeuvring space of 1.1m2
Both spaces have 2 grab rails either side of the toilet, a comfort level WC and emergency pull cords.
Sensory Access
Hymns are projected on screens at the front of the church. We have standard, large print and braille hymnbooks available on request (ask the greeters at the door). We are also able to provide the worship PowerPoint, including hymn lyrics, in advance if required. The worship PowerPoints use dyslexic-friendly fonts and formats.
The Sanctuary has an Auracast assistive listening system installed to enable hearing aid users and those who are hard of hearing to listen directly to the audio that comes through the sound system.
The system uses low energy bluetooth (not the same as oridinary bluetooth!) to broadcast the audio so it can be picked up by a compatible receiver. We have 2 sets of Auracast compatible headphones that act as receivers as well as a small receiver box with a jack connection that can be used with generic headphones. Newer hearing aids may also be Auracast enabled meaning that a user can access the audio directly through their hearing aids using an app on their mobile phone.
To use the system with our headphones or receiver, simply make yourself known to the church tech steward or duty caretaker and they will issue you with the necessary equipment.
Mental Health
We recognise that our mental health is a critical aspect of our general health and that at time our mental health can be complex and very challenging. You can find out more about our mental health ministry.
Sunday services are relaxed and you are welcome to move around the sanctuary or take a break in the foyer at any point during the service.
Invisible Needs
We realise that many disabilities and needs are not immediately visible, nor easy to express to others. Our community is diverse, and in services and church groups both children and adults are welcome to come as they are. We have a relaxed approach and understand that sometimes people make noise or behave in ways that might seem out of the ordinary. We recognise that understanding the service can be challenging and you are always welcome to discuss its meaning afterwards with either the minister or other church members. You are also very welcome to contact the minister in person or via email for clarification or discussion of themes. Additionally, people of all abilities are very welcome at our Bible study and book groups.
Communion Accessibility
Our Communion wine is alcohol-free and gluten-free bread are available. All are welcome to participate or not, as they feel comfortable.