As a church we want to Welcome Well so that all people can come to know Jesus as their Saviour. We want everyone to be able to flourish and grow as disciples. We seek to draw out everyone’s God given gifts and be encouraged to use them as well as aim to include everybody within all aspects of our church life, regardless of any physical, sensory or cognitive difference.

The church building is over 170 years old and although it’s not always possible to provide all the facilities we would like, we always do our best to make the church as accessible – and welcoming- as possible.

Step-free access:
*Step free access in the form of a permanent ramp access path is available on the right hand side of the front entrance. There is a doorbell if the access door is not open.
*It is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies and those who might struggle with the front steps.
*Where possible- but not everywhere- steps have white markings and/or handrails are provided.
*We have designated spaces for a wheelchair and carer at Sunday Services.

Toilets:
There are two toilets accessed from the main body of the church, the one on the left is accessible.
There is a baby changing table and a potty in the left hand toilet.
There are hand rails in the left hand toilet.

 Welcome point:
At each Sunday service we have someone on duty who will be able to help you with any enquiries or hopefully point you to someone that can.
We hope we will be place where visitors or regulars can feel more intentionally welcomed, informed and connected in to the church family.

English not your first language?:
We have a number of bibles and welcome leaflets for new visitors in other languages available via the Welcome Point.
If you would like to speak to someone in your own language we may have someone in our church family who can speak it. Please check at the Welcome Point.

Wheelchairs:
We have designated spaces for wheelchair users at our Sunday Services.

Holy Communion:
If you unable to go up to the communion rail please speak to the steward and they will arrange for communion to be brought to you.

Prayer:
Prayer ministry is always available after the morning service, in the chancel area at the front of the church for those needing prayer – a prayer team member can come to you if access is difficult.

 Visual impairment:
Words for the service are projected onto large screens e.g. bible reading, song words and parts of the order of service.

Large print versions of service cards and bibles are also available. These are stored in a bookcase/drawer on the right hand side of the central door in the fellowship room which lead into main body of the church. Please do ask at the Welcome Point.

 Induction Loop:
Induction loop for people who are hard of hearing is installed in the church for use during services. Hearing Aid users should adjust their aid to T.
The hearing loop covers the entire area of the main church (but not upstairs at present). There are possibly areas that are uneven in coverage.

Quiet space:
There is a quiet space available on Sunday. Please talk to the Stewards and they will show where this space is. This is not staffed so children need to remain with their parent/carer.

Ear defenders/Fidget Box:
Stored at our Welcome point in the church fellowship room are ear defenders for adults and children as well as children’s fidget toys in a labelled Fidget box.

If you think we can help you in church a bit more, please do get in touch with Sue, our Pastoral Worker, who would be happy to chat with you.
Telephone the office: 020 8305 0520 or email sue@stjohnsblackheath.org.uk