While most of us keep on the straight and narrow and the right side of the law, have you ever wondered what it would be like if you found yourself in custody at a police station? No, well, maybe it’s just my curious nature. I have somewhat of a reputation for being a sticky beak and that means I’m keen to get a behind-the-scenes look just about anywhere. So, when the Camden Police held an open day I thought we’d take our police obsessed guy for the hour’s drive to see if a police cell is wheelchair accessible. Good to know these things, right?
Camden Police Open Day – is a police cell wheelchair accessible?
I’ve mentioned before Braeden’s passion for any emergency service staff. I think it’s a combination of their general friendliness and the excitement of seeing emergency service vehicles whizzing around the city. I know for many, the sight of an ambulance or police car isn’t a good one but Braeden has only had positive experiences. Even when his grandparents were taken to hospital at different times, the paramedics were so lovely. They turned lights and sirens on in the driveway for Braeden and it made his day and the paramedics told us their day was made too by his joy. His enthusiasm is enough to lighten the mood even in the most dire of circumstances.
We arrived at the Camden Police open day and it was immediately apparent that this is a popular annual event with the local community. We were there 15 minutes prior to the official opening time and people were streaming into the gates and all the local streets were parked out. Walking towards the Narellan Police Station, where the open day was being held, Braeden spotted the various police vehicles and I thought he might spontaneously combust with the sheer joy and excitement of what lay ahead. The event was much bigger than I anticipated and the range of vehicles on display was dazzling. Police dirt bikes, highway patrol bikes, all manner of police vehicles and even the mounted police had brought their horses along. Braeden was in police heaven.
It was a real treat to be able to tour inside the police station. Braeden was keen to do all the things.
We discovered the docks (as pictured above) are not wheelchair accessible. Too tight to get a wheelchair inside.
Braeden was more than happy to oblige and hop out of his wheelchair and head inside. A happier prisoner they have never seen.
We moved from the docks to the holding cells. These were wonderfully wheelchair accessible with plenty of circulation space and room to transfer either side of the toilet and one side of the slab, I mean bed. Privacy was somewhat lacking with no blinds or curtains, but the room did come with a view of the rest of the station. As many of you know, it’s rare to get a view from a wheelchair accessible room. Floor to ceiling glass allowed good views in and out.
As far as a wheelchair accessible review, I’d say the accessible room, I mean cell, has great space. It definitely leans to the minimalist look and lacks grab bars and lever taps. The wash basin toilet combo is modern but would be difficult to use as a wheelchair user. The toilet roll is located in a somewhat awkward spot for access. The facilities receive a ten out of ten for cleanliness and the staff are extremely friendly, even opening and closing doors for guests. They are quite security conscious locking the door to ensure guest safety during their stay. Guests need to make their own entertainment with no tv in the room.
On the day we visited, entertainment was good with a guest appearance from Batman and his batmobile. The ultimate crime fighter there to help.
In all seriousness, if you are a Sydneysider and have an interest in the police force, head to the Camden Police open day next year. Access at the station isn’t easy for manual wheelchair users with a grass paddock the location of much of the entertainment. No accessible port-a-loos were provided but if you ask nicely you may be allowed to use the accessible staff bathroom inside. We saw lots of fellow wheelies attending and some disability day programs as well. This is a great community event for all ages. Lots of adults were geeking out at all the police equipment and vehicles on show.
If the police force ever needs a young enthusiastic recruit to test out sirens, check accessibility of cells and docks and generally be good company, Braeden’s your guy! He has a deep respect for our guys and gals in blue.
What good fun to see Braeden’s excitement. He looks right at home behind the desk 🙂