Roundhouse becomes first London venue to use pioneering aid for blind people

Roundhouse in Camden, London, shows a large, circular brick building with a domed roof. The historic venue, originally a railway engine shed, has a distinct industrial appearance with tall, arched windows and a sturdy brick facade. The entrance is marked by modern glass doors, and a paved plaza surrounds the building. In the background, a few trees and nearby structures are visible under an overcast sky.

Enhancing Accessibility: The Roundhouse's Integration of NaviLens

In a pioneering move towards inclusivity, London's iconic Roundhouse has become the city's first major performing arts and music venue to integrate NaviLens technology across its entire estate. This innovative digital navigation aid significantly enhances the independence of blind and partially sighted individuals, setting a new standard for accessibility in cultural spaces.

What is NaviLens?

NaviLens is a cutting-edge system designed to assist those with visual impairments navigate public spaces. NaviLens provides real-time audio navigation assistance in multiple languages using QR-style codes and a free smartphone application. Unlike traditional QR codes, NaviLens codes can be detected from a distance, at various angles, and without the need for precise focus, making them particularly user-friendly for individuals with sight loss.

The Roundhouse's Commitment to Inclusivity

The Roundhouse's decision to implement NaviLens technology underscores its dedication to creating an inclusive environment for all visitors. The venue first trialed NaviLens in November 2024, collaborating with the Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC) and Victa, leading charities supporting blind and partially sighted young people. During these sessions, participants used the technology to navigate the studios independently and engage in creative workshops such as podcasting and DJing.

After the successful trial, the Roundhouse expanded NaviLens integration throughout its main space, creative studios, Roundhouse Works, and container building. This comprehensive adoption ensures that all venue areas are accessible, reinforcing the Roundhouse's role as an inclusive creative hub for London's youth.

A Collaborative Effort

The implementation of NaviLens at the Roundhouse was made possible through collaboration with accessibility organizations and user feedback. Fran Barrett, Senior Children, Young People & Families Activity Officer at RSBC, highlighted the technology's positive impact, noting that young participants were able to navigate the studios independently and fully engage in creative activities.

Looking Ahead

The Roundhouse's integration of NaviLens sets a precedent for other cultural venues. By embracing such technologies, public spaces can become more inclusive, ensuring that everyone can participate fully in cultural and creative experiences regardless of visual ability.

As NaviLens continues to gain traction globally, its adoption by venues like the Roundhouse demonstrates a meaningful step towards a more accessible and inclusive society.

Sources:

Roundhouse becomes first Venue in London to use NaviLens, 19 Feb 2025, https://www.roundhouse.org.uk/our-work/our-impact/news-media/roundhouse-navilens/
London’s Roundhouse Venue Goes High-Tech for Accessibility.24 Feb 2025, https://www.accessibility.org.au/londons-roundhouse-venue-goes-high-tech-for-accessibility/
Camden's The Roundhouse to implement digital navigation aid for blind and partially sighted people, 22 Feb 2025, https://mixmag.net/read/the-roundhouse-digital-navigation-aid-blind-partially-sighted-people-disability-navilens-music-venue-london-news

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