HRI 2020 is committed to providing an inclusive environment and we will do our best to accommodate requests for special assistance. This page outlines the accessibility features of HRI 2020, to help you make an informed decision about whether the conference will be accessible to you. Please contact us if your question is not answered here, or if the conference arrangements as described are not enough to allow you to attend. We will work with you to the best of our ability, to accommodate your accessibility requirements.
How do I communicate accessibility needs to the HRI 2020 organisers?
HRI values the diversity of our community, and aims to be an accessible and inclusive conference. Attendees are encouraged to mention any requests for accommodation upon registration for the conference. If you have any questions or concerns about accessibility, or any requests for accommodation, please contact the conference accessibility chair via accessibility2020@humanrobotinteraction.org. Note that some requests may require advance notice, so please submit accessibility requests as far in advance of the conference date as possible in order to give us adequate time to prepare.
Accessibility Chair, HRI 2020:
Luke Wood (University of Hertfordshire, UK)
accessibility2020@humanrobotinteraction.org
When is the deadline for accessibility requests?
The deadline for accessibility requests is 3rd February 2020. If you need support, please inform us of your accessibility requirements/requests before this deadline. You can contact the Accessibility Chair, Luke Wood, by email: accessibility2020@humanrobotinteraction.org
Will the conference be accessible by wheelchair and are there wheelchairs available for loan?
Yes, the conference venues will be accessible by wheelchair. So if you have your own wheelchair and wish to bring it to an event you are welcome to do so. However, the conference venues are not in a position to supply wheelchairs on loan.
How much walking will be needed?
HRI 2020 will be held across three different venues Fitzwilliam College (Workshops on the first day), Corn Exchange and Cambridge Guild Hall (Main Conference), and as such there will be some travel between the venues.
What are expectations, around inclusivity, diversity, and harassment at HRI 2020?
We ask that all conference attendees respect individuals’ identities. Please use their stated names and pronouns; this information is included right on attendees’ badges. If you’re not sure please ask politely.
What restroom facilities are available?
All three venues have accessible toilets with easy access.
Can I bring my guide dog?
Yes, service animals are permitted within on site at all three venues. We remind all attendees that guide dogs are working animals, and ask that you refrain from petting, distracting, or otherwise preventing them from doing their job. We would ask that assistance dogs are clearly identifiable.
Will there be an FM Assisted Listening system available?
In the Cambridge Corn Exchange there is an infra-red hearing enhancement system which can be used either with, or without a hearing aid. The system only works in the auditorium and balcony. The headphones and receiver can be obtained from the steward at the Customer Services Desk. No deposit is required but the stewards will ask for your name and seat number. However the other venues do not have this facility available.
Will the conference be a smoke-free environment?
In accordance with UK legislation smoking is prohibited in all internal areas of the venue.
What food service will be provided?
During coffee breaks, attendees can expect light refreshments with a variety of options available to accommodate diverse dietary needs. Please indicate on you registration forms and specific dietary requirements.
What is the conference space like?
For the specific details of each venue please see the following links:
- Fitzwilliam College – https://www.fitz.cam.ac.uk/about/visiting-fitzwilliam
- Cambridge Corn Exchange – https://www.cambridgelive.org.uk/cornex
- Cambridge Guild Hall – https://www.cambridgelive.org.uk/guildhall
In addition to the information for each venue the conference is located very close to the Cambridge Visitor Centre which also provides useful information regarding accessibility in the area – https://www.visitcambridge.org/visitor-information
How do I get to the conference venue?
The venues for HRI are located in central Cambridge and are accessible via a number of transport options.
- Fitzwilliam College (workshops on first day)
Fitzwilliam College is located approximately 10 minute’s car journey from the main conference location. The closest car park is the Castle Hill Car Park which is approximately 7 minutes’ walk from the venue.
- Corn Exchange and Cambridge Guild Hall (main conference)
By car: These venues are closely located to each other and whist they do not have parking the nearest carpark is the Grand Arcade carpark next door to the venue where there are 35 blue badge bays available.
By Taxi: The nearest taxi rank to the venue is on St Andrew’s Street, approximately a 3 minute walk from the venue. Taxis will also be able to drop off and collect from outside the venues where there is a lowered curb and ramp access.
By Train: Cambridge rail station is located approximately 7 minutes’ drive from the station.