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Russell Lewis Counselling Services is committed to ensuring that our website is accessible to people with disabilities. We are constantly working to make our site user-friendly for everyone, including those with disabilities.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

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For: Russell Lewis Counselling Services
Website: www.russelllewiscounselling.com
Date: 01/09/2025
Last Updated: 19/09/2025

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Our Commitment to Accessibility

We are committed to ensuring that our counselling services are accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, disability, or assistive technology used. We believe that mental health support should be available to all members of our community.

This statement outlines the accessibility measures we have implemented for both our website and our physical practice locations, as well as our ongoing efforts to improve accessibility.

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Website Accessibility

Technical Standards:

Our website is built using Wix and we strive to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at Level AA. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities.

Built-in Wix Accessibility Features:

Our website benefits from Wix's accessibility infrastructure, which includes:

Keyboard Navigation:

  • All site components are operable with a keyboard

  • Skip to Content functionality allows direct navigation to main content

  • The DOM is automatically arranged for left-to-right navigation with keyboards and screen readers

Screen Reader Support:

  • Built-in ARIA attributes provide enriched accessible user experience

  • Components have correct semantics built in for better content understanding

  • Site is rendered with correct language for screen reader comprehension

  • Heading tags help screen reader users understand site organization

Visual Accessibility:

  • Compliant colour contrast ratios throughout the site

  • Alternative text (alt text) descriptions for images

  • Responsive design that works across all devices

  • Text can be enlarged up to 400% without horizontal scrolling

Additional Features:

  • Wix Accessibility Wizard has been used to identify and address accessibility issues

  • Mobile-responsive design ensures accessibility across devices

  • Clear navigation structure and consistent layout

  • Descriptive link text and button labels

Content Accessibility Measures

We have implemented the following content-specific accessibility features:

  • Clear Language: Written in plain English, avoiding jargon where possible

  • Structured Content: Proper heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3) for easy navigation

  • Descriptive Links: Link text clearly describes the destination or function

  • Form Accessibility: Contact forms include proper labels and instructions

  • Document Accessibility: PDFs and downloadable documents are made accessible where possible

Website Accessibility Limitations

Despite our efforts, some areas may still present accessibility challenges:

  • Third-party content or embedded services may not be fully accessible

  • Some older PDF documents may not be fully optimized for screen readers

  • Live chat features may have limited screen reader support

  • Complex forms may require additional assistance

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Physical Location Accessibility - The Eaves, Guildford

Our face-to-face counselling sessions are held at The Eaves counselling rooms in Guildford, Surrey.

Location Details

Address: The Eaves, Parklands, 3 Paris, Railton Road, Guildford, GU2 9JX
Contact: 01483 917000
Website: theeaves.org.uk

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Access Features

Based on available information, The Eaves Guildford offers:

Physical Access:

  • Wheelchair access available

  • Ample free parking available near the building

  • Good access by road and public transport

  • Located in peaceful area near Queen Elizabeth Park

Facility Features:

  • 25 soundproofed therapy rooms designed exclusively for therapeutic work

  • Tea & coffee facilities available

  • Receptionist and waiting area

  • WiFi access throughout building

  • Sink facilities in rooms

Room Setup:

  • Comfortable seating including couches, sofas, and chairs

  • Desks and tables available

  • Carefully thought out lighting for comfort

  • Quiet, private environment designed for therapy

Transportation Access

  • Public Transport: Good access by public transport with mainline train stations nearby

  • Parking: Ample free parking near the building

  • Location: Central location for Surrey towns including Woking, Aldershot, Alton, Farnborough and Cranleigh

Additional Accessibility Information

For specific accessibility requirements or questions about physical access at The Eaves, please:

  • Contact The Eaves directly on 01483 917000

  • Discuss your specific needs when booking your session

  • Request information about alternative arrangements if needed

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Communication Accessibility

Alternative Communication Methods

We offer multiple ways to access our services:

  • In-Person Sessions: Face-to-face counselling at The Eaves, Guildford

  • Online Sessions: Video counselling via secure platforms (when appropriate)

  • Phone Counselling: Available for initial consultations or ongoing support

  • Email Contact: For non-urgent communication and appointment scheduling

Language and Communication Support

  • Sessions conducted in English

  • Written materials available in clear, accessible formats

  • Complex information explained in understandable terms

  • Visual aids or written summaries provided when helpful

Sensory Considerations

  • Quiet, calm environment for sessions

  • Adjustable lighting in therapy rooms

  • Soundproofed rooms to ensure privacy and reduce distractions

  • Comfortable seating arrangements

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Booking and Administrative Accessibility

Flexible Appointment Options

  • Multiple contact methods for booking (phone, email, website)

  • Alternative booking arrangements for those who need assistance

Documentation and Forms

  • Forms available in accessible digital formats

  • Large print versions available upon request

  • Alternative completion methods (verbal, assisted) when needed

  • Clear, simple language used in all documentation

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Ongoing Accessibility Improvements

Current Initiatives

  • Regular review of website accessibility using automated and manual testing

  • Feedback collection from clients about accessibility barriers

  • Staff training on disability awareness and inclusive practices

  • Collaboration with The Eaves to ensure facility accessibility

Planned Improvements

  • Enhanced website accessibility features

  • Improved documentation formats

  • Additional staff accessibility training

  • Regular accessibility audits of both digital and physical spaces

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How to Report Accessibility Issues

If you encounter any accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please contact us:

For Website Issues:

For Physical Location Issues:

  • Direct Contact: Receptionist

  • The Eaves: 01483 917000

  • Subject: "Accessibility Accommodation Request"

What to Include in Your Report:

  • Description of the accessibility barrier encountered

  • The page URL or specific location (for website issues)

  • Assistive technology being used (if applicable)

  • Suggested improvements or alternative solutions needed

We aim to respond to accessibility feedback within 5 working days and will work with you to find appropriate solutions.

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Alternative Formats and Assistance

Available Upon Request:

  • Large print versions of documents

  • Electronic versions of printed materials

  • Verbal explanation of written information

  • Alternative appointment arrangements

  • Assistance with form completion

How to Request:

Contact us at least 48 hours before your appointment to arrange:

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External Resources

Additional Support Organizations:

  • AccessAble: Detailed accessibility guides for local venues

  • RNIB: Support for people with sight loss

  • Action on Hearing Loss: Support for people with hearing loss

  • Mind: Mental health support with accessibility focus

Local Accessibility Services:

  • Surrey County Council Accessibility Services

  • Local disability support organizations

  • Transportation accessibility services

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Compliance Statement

Standards Adherence:

  • Website: Strives to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards

  • Services: Complies with Equality Act 2010 requirements

  • Continuous Improvement: Regular review and enhancement of accessibility features

Limitations:

While we strive for full accessibility, some limitations may exist due to:

  • Third-party services and content

  • Legacy content or systems

  • Technical constraints of platforms used

We are committed to addressing these limitations through ongoing improvement efforts.

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Contact Information

Primary Contact:

Russell Lewis
Email: russ@russelllewiscounselling.com
Phone: 07713576222

Practice Location:

The Eaves Counselling Rooms
Phone: 01483 917000
Website: theeaves.org.uk

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Review and Updates

This accessibility statement will be reviewed and updated:

  • Annually or when significant changes are made

  • Following accessibility feedback or identified barriers

  • When new accessibility features are implemented

  • In response to updated guidelines or regulations

Last Review Date: 19/09/2025
Next Review Date: 01/09/2025

We are committed to making our counselling services accessible to all members of our community. If you need any assistance or have questions about accessibility, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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