Event information

Date: Wednesday 10th September 2025

Time: 10:00am – 4:30pm

Venue: Catalyst Building, Newcastle Helix, Science Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5TG

Room: Theatre (Ground Floor)

What to expect on the day

When you arrive at the Catalyst Building, you will see our branding on the big screen in the window. You will also meet our team (purple t-shirts) outside the front door, who will be happy to show you where to go.

You can come inside from 10 am.

When you arrive inside, after the automatic doors, you’ll veer slightly to the right and see a table where you can collect your delegate pack (tote bag) and name sticker.

Please write your name on your sticker in the white space. You’ll find a fine line marker in your tote bag.

After this, you can find tea/coffee and pastries in the main social space, which is on the left of reception.

This is where lunch will be later in the day.

This is a public space so people who aren’t attending Access:Given may also be using the cafe or in the lobby.

When it’s time for the day to start, we will let you know.

Everyone will make their way to the TED Theatre, which is on the ground floor. The door to the theatre is to the right of the cafe as you’re looking at it. This is where all the talks take place.

Wheelchair accessibility

The building is fully wheelchair accessible, with internal and external step-free access:

• Wide aisles allow easy movement.
• Front-row seats fold away to allow wheelchair users to sit alongside other delegates.
• The Sensory Room can be accessed via a lift for those needing a quieter space.

Sound accessibility

• Live captions will be provided for all talks.

• Hearing loops are installed under every seat. Hearing aid users can tune into the correct channel to clearly hear speakers.

Toilet facilities

• Gender-neutral accessible toilets and a hygiene room are available on the ground floor
• Directions: As you enter the building through the main doors, the toilets are to the right, behind the main reception. The reception is in front of you. 
• Delegates are free to leave the theatre for toilet or comfort visits at any point during the event via the side door.

General access

• Speaker slides will be displayed on a large screen to ensure readability.
• Side doors will remain accessible throughout the day, allowing attendees to enter and leave quietly for breaks or toilet visits.
• The aisles are extra-wide to allow for easier movement if you do need to leave during a talk.
• A dedicated Sensory Room will be available for decompressing throughout the day.
  • The room includes books, fidgets, and other calming items for communal use.
  • The room is located upstairs in the Derwent room. 
  • Upstairs, you will also find more accessible toilet facilities

Parking and public transport

• Paid on-site parking is available at The Garage, Corporation Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5TF. This includes Blue Badge disabled parking spaces.
• The nearest Metro station is Central Station, and the nearest mainline train station is Newcastle Central Station, both within walking distance of the venue.

Contact information

Accessibility is our top priority. If you have any questions, requirements, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Email: info@accessgiven.co.uk

We aim to respond as quickly as possible to ensure you have all the information and support you need.