As a community pub, we want the Silks to be accessible to all and for everyone to feel welcome. This approach takes a number of forms:
Whilst the pub is wheelchair accessible through the rear car park, we have applied for planning permission to add a ramp at the front of the building. When we have both that planning permission and the funds available to do it, we will start that work.
The Silks has never had a disabled toilet. We have identified the area where we will build this and cleared the area. However, the extra costs incurred in re-wiring the pub means that we have had to defer that work until we have the funds to do it. We will also include baby changing facilities in the new toilet. This baby changer will also support our intention to become a “breastfeeding welcome” pub. If required, we will try to find a quiet corner for breastfeeding mums to feel comfortable.
Mums and Dads with toddlers will also be welcome and we intend to build up a small stock of toddler toys and activities to keep them amused. We will also cater for children with a specific menu. Those who are “young at heart” are also catered for with large print menus if required. And as we will be planning a number of activities at the pub, such as quiz evenings and talks, we will be looking at the possibility of raising funds to install a hearing loop to ensure those with hearing difficulties can take part too.
We have wifi facilities which can provide an opportunity for those working from home to come to the pub and still carry on working. We hope that this will address some of the issues associated with working from home and being alone for long periods. Whilst we are not able to accommodate play facilities in our garden at the moment, we will explore whether we can provide something in the future. In the meantime, further work in the pub garden will ensure that it is safe for children. We will also provide bike racks and ensure that the garden is fenced off to keep dogs safe too.
As the pub develops over the next few months we will look at initiating new activities and welcoming clubs and societies, who we hope will use the pub as a venue to bring their existing and new members together. These might include (but are not limited to!) a venue for coffee mornings, breakfast club, book club, history club, local NCT group, walking group, cycling group, board games group, etc. Please let us know if you want to start up a club or use the pub as a venue.