Assisted Bowls

The sport of Bowls can be played by almost anyone, with or without a disability. Bowlers with a disability can compete with or against non-disabled bowlers in most situations. It is one of the most accessible and integrated sports readily available.

Here at Tonbridge Angels IBC we are pleased to say that we have both the facilities and experience to support all bowlers who need some form of assistance to participate in our great sport. So, if you or your family or friends have an illness, disability or are recovering from a condition such that you feel you may need some assistance to bowl you can be sure of receiving a warm welcome at our club.

         

Our dedicated "Assisted Bowling" sessions

Whilst we have a number of disabled bowlers participating with and against non-disabled bowlers, we are also particularly proud of our specific "Assisted Bowling" sessions.

These run every Friday from 09.30 to 12.00 and began when the centre first opened in 1981 (temporarily suspended due to Covid-19). We have bowlers who use wheelchairs, those who are partially sighted and others with physical limitations, all of whom are assisted by a group of experienced volunteers.

If you are interested in seeing more of the Club or having a go do feel free to just turn up to one of these sessions on a Friday morning. Or, if you prefer, you can phone, email or message the Club using the contact form to the right.

 

Parking and Access to the Club

Even though we are in the centre of Tonbridge we have lots of free parking within our own dedicated car park. This includes two marked disabled bays adjacent to the front door. 

There are no steps to negotiate to obtain access to the club from the car park. We have wheelchairs available to use both within the car park and within the Club.

Should you be arriving by public transport, Tonbridge high street is approx 600 metres from the Club.   

Access to the Bowling Hall and Carpet

We have no steps within the Club. We have general wheelchairs available to use within the Club, dedicated wheelchairs to use on the actual bowling carpet and ramps to get on and off. Access to the bowling hall is via double swing doors.

Facilities

We have a dedicated wheelchair accessible toilet and all of the changing rooms, viewing areas, bar and restaurant are fully accessible, including to wheelchair users. The Club has no shower facilities.

 

Coaching and Support

Our team of qualified coaches and helpers are able to provide support for any player with a disability 

Our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

We believe that bowls is a sport for all. See here for the Club's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

Our Health & Safety Policy

We have a rigorous approach to health & safety, including to the specific needs of assisted bowlers. We have five Emergency Exits within the Club, all accesible to wheelchair users. See here for the Club's Policy. 

Available Equipment and Facilities       

We have a range of equipment for those that need some assistance. This includes

 bowls and jack lifters

 bowls and jack "launchers" (ideal for bowlers with back, hip or knee problems)

 specially adapted wheelchairs which can be used on the carpet

 buddies

bowls gatherers

 supportive walking sticks

 a wide range of sizes and weight bowls available to borrow (from "000" to 5)

Spread the Word

If you would like to share the above information onwards you can download our informational 'flyer' here 

 

We look forward to welcoming you to our club