Access Statement

The Witcombe and Bentham Village Hall strives to make its facilities available to all members of the local community. To that end the following access statement has been adopted.

The Trustees will:

  • Continue to be committed to providing a Community facility which is available to all members of the community, irrespective of their circumstances.

  • Encourage the use of the Hall by every member of the community. There are some thriving Clubs and User Groups; we would like to attract more. By providing a facility where activities take place, the Management Committee is helping to ensure the survival of the village community. The social life which revolves around the Village Hall may be the only opportunity many people have to mix with friends and be involved in the support network which is vital for many of the more vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and parents with young children.

  • Make its buildings available to all members of the local community throughout the year at times and dates to meet the hirers’ requirements on a first come, first served basis.

  • Enable bookings are via the Custodian, and the website: www.witcombevillagehall.co.uk, and wandbvillagehall@hotmail.com.

  • Charge reasonable hire charges (market rate comparable) to cover ongoing costs and publish hire charges.

  • By ensuring the provision of a base for the services provided by various user groups, the village hall Trustees have a vital part to play in promoting social inclusion in our rural community.

  • Annually review charges to ensure everyone is obtaining the best possible value.

  • Review this Access Statement annually.

Physical Access:

  • Witcombe and Bentham Village Hall is open for public bookings:

  • Monday to Sunday 8am to 12 midnight

  • We have a number of User Groups who have recurring weekly and monthly bookings so please check with the Custodian for available booking times.

  • For disability access there is a ramp and wide entrance door, as well toilet facilities incorporating child changing facilities.

  • As licensed premises, the Licensing Act, 2003 must be adhered to:

1.  Only alcoholic beverages purchased in the Village Hall are allowed to be consumed on the premises.

2.  Consuming alcohol outside the Village Hall is forbidden after 9.30pm.

3.  Should a hirer wish to provide their own alcoholic beverage for toasts etc. A written request must be submitted with the booking form and a fee will be added to the hire charge to cover corkage and use of glasses.  Glasses must be washed up after use.

4.  The bar can be booked, and staffed, for private events, please refer to the costs included in the Hire Charges Listing.

 

Music:

All live music and dancing must end at 12 midnight to comply with Council Licensing Regulations.

 

Bookings can be made via:

  • Email to wandbvillagehall@hotmail.com.

  • Contacting the custodian; number on website and in local news magazines.

  • Via our on line booking request on our website www.witcombevillagehall.co.uk/booking