Synopsis of Gallery Space and Surrounding Area: Gallery Gachet is a unique artist-run centre located in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Located at 9 West Hastings, near Pigeon Park between Carrall & Columbia Streets. The location is accessible by Bus, Skytrain and Seabus within 1 bus connection. Surrounding bus routes within 1-2 city blocks include #14, 16, 20, 95, 4, 7 buses. There is limited paid street parking for vehicles. Bikes can be locked at a number of locations nearby at City provided bike posts.

The Main space is a single level space with no stairs. The layout varies depending on the event and art installation(s) in progress.

Washroom Access: There is one gender-neutral, accessible washroom in the venue with access to tap water for drinking available from a sink in the kitchen. Possible access issues included reaching the doorbell at the entrance and paper-towel holder in the washroom if seated in a mobility device.

Harm Reduction: The venue promotes harm reduction and safety for all patrons. No substances are served, and the space is not intended to be a site where folks are using substances actively. Patrons/members who are intoxicated or using substances are welcome to access the space. Conversations will occur on a case by case basis. A naloxone kit is available on site in the event of an overdose.

Gachet is intended to provide accessible, meaningful opportunities and support for artists experiencing mental health challenges and/or social marginalization. The majority of staff have experience assisting people with various disabilities and/or needs.

Chemical Sensitivity and Scent Reduction Policy: Please note that there is currently a scent-reduced policy in place at Gallery Gachet. Gallery Gachet utilizes low VOC paints however, many strong chemicals are used in numerous art pieces and scent reduction depends on the event. It is possible to plan events in between exhibitions/ installations & use air purifiers to minimize impact. Specific events will have their own policies.

Access Categories / Rating Key (FULL, SEMI, or NON) to consider:

FULL: e.g. can freely access all publicly available spaces; scent policy in place & enforced; ASL, Braille, & other accommodations at no charge; sliding scale available; etc.

SEMI: e.g. can access most/main activity spaces but not all public areas, some arrangements/changes required, some accommodations provided for deaf/HoH and blind/vision limited folks; adequate lighting for signing; limited scent policy; etc. |

NON: e.g. can’t access main public areas; no scent policy in place; no ASL or Braille; inadequate lighting for signing; no sliding scale; etc.

Questions, concerns, additions, corrections, or kudos regarding this accessibility audit?

Please email: rampvancouver@gmail.com

Learn more about auditing, captioning, and the Radical Access Mapping Project here: https://radicalaccessiblecommunities.wordpress.com/