Melodic Distraction: Accessibility Report
Bar and Venue Access
Melodic Distraction bar, coffee shop and event space are all found on the ground floor of our premises. All access to our venue is via Constance Street and the ground floor is wheelchair accessible. There is a small ramp on the pavement outside and another small ramp to enter and exit though the main opening. If the shutter is down, there is a bell on the wall which can be used to alert staff inside - the bell is height accessible.
We are open Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm to 11pm. These hours may be subject to change, and in these instances we will update the day’s opening times on our website, instagram account @melodic_bar_and_coffee and other relevant social media or listing sites.
Summer Entrance
Winter Entrance
External Ramp
Internal Ramp
Our venue is outdoor, with a partially covered area made from a timber structure and polycarb roof which provides cover from the rain. We have overhead heaters, and blankets which can be provided on request, for evenings and when the weather is cold. Seating is provided on backless wooden benches and tables.
The performance space for artists and performers, situated next to the bar, can be accessed via step which is 22cm. For those who will need access via ramp, we have a ramp available on site and can arrange it prior to arrival at the venue to allow them to access the performance space.
Our bar is partially accessible. It is raised slightly by 22 cm off ground level. Table service will always be offered to those who require it and we have future plans to create a ramp which leads to our bottom container to grant more direct access.
Bar/Performance Space
Bar Height
Accessible Toilets
We have an accessible toilet on the ground floor, which, once in the venue, requires no steps or ramps to access. It is also fitted with an emergency alarm. Sanitary products are also provided in both of our two toilets, and they are located just beyond the bar at the far end of the venue.
Accessible Toilet Interior
Accessible Toilet Exterior
Second Toilet Interior
Second Toilet Exterior
Radio Access
We regret that our radio studio is not currently wheelchair friendly. There are 17 stairs to climb in order to reach our first floor studio.
We have the ability to run radio shows from an accessible downstairs studio set-up when required, so that those with accessibility requirements can still host shows here at Melodic Distraction until the lift has been installed.
18+ Access
We run a licensed bar every day from 12 midday to 11pm. After 7pm, our premises are only open to over 18s. We have the right to check the ID of anyone in the venue and operate with the “Challenge 25 Rule”.
Sound Amplitude
Audio quality is important to us. In the venue, we have a DnB Audio Sound System, with 4 tops and 1 sub facing into the space. We also have an Allen & Heath PA Sound Desk.
We monitor our sound output via dB readings, which our team documents during events throughout the week. Particularly during events with live music, we have a sound technician that maintains our audio levels and its quality. We thrive to maintain levels at 85dB-A - to reduce noise pollution to the surrounding areas and protect customers from noise damage.
We have ear plugs, free of charge, available at the bar upon request.
Autism
We realise any venue, and especially one where there may be loud music, could be overwhelming to someone with sensory overload or social anxiety. Our venue at Melodic Distraction usually runs as a bar on the ground floor, where people can sit with a drink by themselves or with friends, and listen to live radio. Alongside the bar, we also run events in the space throughout the week. On Wednesdays, we have a pub quiz, and sometimes live music or a DJ at the weekend.
To minimise any challenges, we offer daytime visits for anyone who wants to familiarise themselves with our surroundings. We are happy to show you around so you can see the entrance, exit, bar and toilets, and can offer to play you the music at the volume it will be played at events. We also offer FREE earplugs during all our events and normal bar hours. Please ask a member of staff behind the bar if you would like a pair.
In addition, it will be possible to show anyone our evening lighting situation - the majority of our events do not use strobe lighting (and never when we are open only as a bar) but in the rare case of strobe lighting being used, we will advertise this ahead of time.
The upstairs decking area is a private space which can be utilised as a breakout space, should someone need an area if feeling overwhelmed. Just notify a member of staff and we’d be happy to help.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are always welcome at our venue, as are all dogs. However, please be aware, there may be loud music at events.
Safety and Best Practice Policy
Melodic Distraction is about sharing a love of music within the community. We want everyone who comes here to feel welcome and safe and to have a good time.
We ask that everyone respects one another’s boundaries and looks out for each other.
Our radio station and space has a zero tolerance policy towards harassment, violence, agression and discriminatory behaviour (including but not limited to sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, xenophobia).
If you need to find a safe space and get a taxi home, ask a member of staff for Angela who can assist you.
Our staff are soon to be enrolled onto ‘Good Night Out’ Training.
Accessibility Enqiuries/Feedback
Please email bar@melodicdistraction.com if you have any more questions or would like to provide feedback relating to accessibility.