Triangle

Accessibility and support at graduation

We are committed to ensuring that your big day is as accessible, inclusive and enjoyable as it can be for both you and your guests.

On this page you'll find:

Quiet ceremony

If you think you will find the noise and busy environment of a typical graduation event overwhelming, you may prefer to attend a quiet ceremony. These will be held on Friday 1 August in the Trent Building on University Park Campus. Visit our quiet ceremony webpage for further information.

 

 

 

Accessible parking

If you or a member of your party are a blue badge holder, you do not need to pay for parking, provided you display your badge. 

If you or your guests have accessibility requirements but aren't blue badge holders, our security team will direct you to a suitable parking space on the day. You will still need to pay for parking.

Transport and parking

 

External view of David Ross Sports Village

AccessAble - building guides and access routes

The university has teamed up with AccessAble to provide guides on the accessibility of our buildings and campuses. 

The app provides practical information about facilities available and the access routes into a building, as well as signposting to prayer rooms, parenting rooms, gender-neutral toilets and quiet spaces.

Explore the graduation venue guides:

 

FAQs

I am a wheelchair user, is the ceremony accessible for me?

Yes, the graduation ceremony is fully accessible. The stage has a ramp on either sides and we can reserve end row seats for any graduating students or their guests who are wheelchair users and will be attending. Please get in touch with us through the Student Enquiry Centre and we'll organise this for you.

On the day, individuals with reserved seating will need to speak to a seating steward (identified by their blue gown) as they enter the hall, and they will be guided to their reserved seats.

 
I need disabled parking at graduation. How can I arrange this?
Not to worry, we have disabled parking available near the graduation venue. As you park, there will be security members guiding people to parking spaces. Let them know, and they will guide you to the most appropriate space on the day.
 
What arrangements are provided for hearing or vision impaired attendees?

We can arrange front-row seating for any students or guests with vision or hearing impairments. If you require one, we can also book a British Sign Language interpreter for the ceremony. Please let us know, and we will make the necessary arrangements.

 

If I am neurodivergent or anxious about attending my graduation, what adjustments can be made for me or my guests?

We are able to offer a number of adjustments in the main ceremonies. Please notify us in advance of any requirements so that we can factor these in when allocating seating. Our current adjustments include:

  • Making the venue wheelchair accessible, including ramped access to the stage
  • Allowing assistance dogs to be seated with you during the ceremony
  • Flexibility with seating, we can seat you closer to the stage for those experiencing mobility challenges or anxiety
  • For those hard of hearing, we can arrange BSL interpreters upon request. Please let us know when you register so we can make the necessary arrangements.
  • Convenient, accessible parking for blue badge holders

Alternatively, we now offer a quiet ceremony option if you would prefer to attend a smaller, quieter ceremony.

If there any other adjustments you would like to discuss, please contact us.

 
I prefer not to shake hands as I cross the stage. Is there an alternative?
This is no problem at all. Instead of shaking hands, simply place your hand diagonally across your chest as you cross the stage.
 
I need to bring a carer on the day. How can I arrange a carer ticket?
We offer carer tickets, which you can request when registering or by contacting the graduation team. These must be requested no later than two weeks before your ceremony.
 
I have a support animal that I will need to bring on the day. What arrangements should I make?
Please get in touch with us and we'll see what we can do to accommodate them.
 
I or, or one of my guests, need quick access to the toilet during the ceremony. Are these available?

There are accessible toilets available both outside David Ross Sports Village and inside, right next to the ceremony hall.

Please ask one of the stewards wearing a blue gown and they will be able to show you where these are.

 
Will there be access to sanitary products in and around the graduation venue?

Yes, Period Project have set up free sanitary product stations all over campus. This includes in all female and accessible toilets inside David Ross Sports Village. To view the locations, click here.

 

If you or your guests have any further questions or require additional support, please contact us.

Get in touch