1. Provide detailed gradient and camber descriptions in both on- and off-site information to allow visitors to choose appropriate routes. 2. Offer alternative routes to site highlights if main routes have steep gradients. 3. Consider additional support on gradients, such as hand rails and resting points, to enable use by a wider audience. 4. Provide alternative experiences or interpretation for those unable to navigate certain gradients.

1. Sensory Trust information sheet
Gradients
It is especially important in the
natural environment to consider
the variety of gradients offered by
the routes around sites; they are
often challenging and sometimes
cannot be reduced easily by cutting
into the landscape. When assessing
gradients consider the experience
that is on offer to everyone. Ask
yourself what additional support,
such as hand rails and resting points
along challenging sections, could
enable a route to be used by a wider
audience? experiences if steep gradients prevent or
Some people visit the outdoors for limit access, for example interpretation at
a stimulating experience that involves the bottom of steep paths for those unable
challenging gradients and these can be to climb to the top.
offered at sites. Most importantly, a visitor Provide information on gradients to
should be able to find out the types of visitors through off-site and on-site
gradients on routes so they can make an information. This is particularly important
informed choice of route. Provide good in pre-visit information for people who need
quality, up-to-date information, both pre- to plan their trip in more detail, such as
visit and on-site. The more information disabled people who will need to know what
available the better a visitor’s experience choices are available to them.
will be as they are able to choose and enjoy Consider whether there is an alternative
the level of visit they require. route which could be offered to the same
A site will need to provide alternative location that avoids the steeper sections
of pathway, and provide
information on these
alternative routes through off-
and on-site information.
Provide information on
gradients, cambers and
steps, through tactile guides
and on-site indicators on
routes, for visitors with visual
impairments.
Ensure that gradient
information that is provided
on and off-site is non-
judgmental; give enough
information to allow visitors to
decide for themselves whether
they are able to tackle the

2. In brief
1 Provide gradient and camber
descriptions in both on- and off-
site information
2 Offer an alternative route to site
highlights if possible
3 Give enough information to
allow visitors to choose routes
4 Provide additional support on
gradients. Avoid judgmental information, gradients such as hand rails and
for example signs that state a path is resting points
“suitable for wheelchairs”. Wheelchair
5 Provide alternative experiences
users and people with powered mobility or interpretation for visitors
vehicles make their own choices as to unable to climb the gradients.
which gradients are accessible to them.
Providing them with information on the
type of gradient supports their decision
making. It is vital to offer choice and not
make decisions for visitors. With the correct
information (regularly checked for changes,
upgrades and so on) individuals can decide
on the type of experience they would like
and not be put in a difficult or disappointing
The Sensory Trust promotes and
situation.
supports the creation and management
Information should also include the of outdoor spaces that can be used and
length of a route in both an approximate enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age
time (average walking speed) and or ability.
distance in kilometres and metres. This is
Visit www.sensorytrust.org.uk
important as some people will not be able to
or contact:
comprehend distances but can understand a
length of time. Sensory Trust, Watering Lane Nursery,
Pentewan, St.Austell, Cornwall PL26
Also consider options for alternative
6BE
routes without steps, and indicate these
through signage and/or portable maps. Tel: +44 (0)1726 222900
Temporary ramps can provide a solution Fax: +44 (0)1726 222901
where there are limited options for Email: enquiries@sensorytrust.org.uk
providing access through other means, but
make sure these are good quality, can be The Sensory Trust is a registered charity
firmly secured and are in keeping with the (No. 1020670) and a company limited
by guarantee (No. 02811046)
site character.
Registered Office: Watering Lane
People expect steps to be maintained in
good condition, with handrails for support
and non-slip surfaces.
People with visual impairments expect
the edging to be in a contrasting colour so
that they are able to judge the height and
drop of the steps.