Hampshire Sight Loss Council works with Portsmouth Museum to increase access
Hampshire Sight Loss Council (SLC) volunteer member, Kate, shares how their SLC is collaborating with museums to increase the accessibility for blind and partially sighted people.
Four people stand in front of a cabinet displaying historical items
“On Wednesday, 2 July, members of Hampshire Sight Loss Council visited Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery to carry out an accessibility audit. The group, comprising blind and partially sighted volunteers, was warmly welcomed by museum staff and given a comprehensive tour of the exhibitions.
The museum features a diverse range of displays – from paintings and artefacts to interactive exhibits. One standout room, dedicated to a former nightclub, even included tactile clothing from the era, allowing visitors to engage through touch.
Two attendees stood in front of some artwork that is fixed to a white wall
Why we do this
The audit focused on various aspects of accessibility, including the museum’s website. Members praised the site for its detailed information, such as directions from nearby bus stops, building access guidance, and notes about rooms with low lighting to protect sensitive artefacts.
During the visit, the group assessed lighting, the size and colour contrast of printed exhibit information, the availability of accessible activities, and the quality of audio exhibits. One key observation was the need for more descriptive content about the artworks themselves. While emotional context is often provided in artist catalogues, members felt that objective descriptions would help blind and partially sighted visitors better understand and appreciate the art.
A highlight of the visit was the temporary exhibition on the Portsmouth suffragette movement. The curator had created a QR code linking to a webpage with detailed descriptions of the collection – an inclusive and forward-thinking approach that impressed the group.
A group of people taking a photo in front of a distorted mirror giving the illusion of their bodies being stretched
While Hampshire Sight Loss Council recognises that not every museum can implement such features immediately, they encourage institutions to focus on small, impactful changes. These “small wins” can significantly enhance the visitor experience for people with sight loss.
Hampshire Sight Loss Council looks forward to collaborating with Portsmouth Museum on future accessibility initiatives.”
Publication date: 31 July 2025