About Disability Awareness Day

The Organisers

Disability Awareness Day was founded by Dave Thompson MBE DL in 1992 and is managed by Warrington Disability Partnership, the charity Dave founded in 1991. Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP) is based in Warrington at the Centre for Independent Living, Evelyn Street, Warrington WA5 1BA and our phone number is 01925 240064.

About DAD

Have you ever wondered what DAD week and Disability Awareness Day are like behind the scenes? Read this fascinating first hand account from Dave Thompson MBE DL, the Co-ordinator of the event.

Disability Awareness Day

In the many marquees that create the show ground visitors will be able to explore more than 250 exhibitors promoting independent living and the theme of a ‘can do’ culture, as well as enjoying the Sports Zone, Arts Marquee, Main Arena and Family Entertainments. DAD offers something for everyone and a fun day out for the whole family.

Getting There

There is a free bus and a park and ride service available.
» Maps and full details of how to get to Walton Hall

Parking

Car parking at Walton Hall Gardens is limited. Walton Lea Road car park adjacent to the bridge to the park, we have reserved all 300 spaces on the main front tarmac covered section for blue badge holders. There are a further 700 spaces on the grass field over-spill car park at the rear (this can mean a journey of over 700 metres to the event site) a dropping off point is available adjacent to the bridge. Car parking is free for badge holders (standard rates apply to all others). Minibuses and Coaches can park on the overspill car park (commercial rates apply contact Walton Hall Rangers for more details Tel 01925 601617).

Scooter Hire

Approximately 30 mobility scooters are available on hire for £10 per day. Pre booking is required please contact Kate on 01925 240064 or email Kate

Free wheelchair loan

Forty wheelchairs are available on free loan. Speak to our stewards who will be wearing distinctive black DAD polo shirts and yellow tabards. If you would like to discuss any special requirements such as leg elevators, attendant or self-propel chairs in sizes for children, young people and adults please contact the DAD office on 01925 240064 and speak to Kate or email Kate

Accessible facilities

There are five permanent unisex wheelchair accessible toilet units situated around the event site plus one temporary mobile unit (marked WC on site plan). The toilet block adjacent to the entrance bridge, (near the heritage centre) also has a hoist and changing plinth. (RADAR key needed)

Assistance & Support

If you would like to discuss any special requirements such as leg elevators, attendant or self-propel chairs in sizes for children, young people and adults please contact the DAD office on 01925 240064 and Kate or email Kate

The DAD Stewards are wearing distinctive black polo shirts and day-glow yellow tabards. They are all in radio contact with the event organisers, and St John Ambulance. Two fully qualified BSL Interpreters will be available throughout the day. The Ranger Service will be onsite all day to answer questions, help people and show everyone around the beautiful grounds, gardens and zoo of Walton Hall.

First Aid

First Aid will be provided by St John Ambulance who will be situated adjacent to the Main Arena.