Accessibility and Inclusion

Built for brains like yours.

We are not going to tell you everything is perfect. It is not.
What we will do is give you clear, honest information so you can decide whether SpicyCon works for you — before you arrive, not on the day.

Download the full Accessibility Policy — everything you need about the venue, parking, transport, sensory environment, toilets, and emergency information.

Download the full Inclusion Policy — who SpicyCon is for, how we ask everyone to show up, and what to do if something goes wrong.

Need either document in large print, plain text, or audio? Email hello@thespicybraincollective.com. You do not need the right words.

Quick Access Summary

What You Need to Know

Everything at a glance.

What is confirmed

Step-free venue. No stairs.
Accessible toilet with grab rails.
Assistance dogs welcome throughout.
All lighting can be adjusted.
Energy Corner available all day.
Photography opt-out stickers at registration.
Free carer tickets available.
Visual fire alarm confirmed.
SpicyCon team on site all day.

Know before you go

Noticeable incline from estate entrance to venue.
No hearing loop or induction loop.
No separate quiet room. Energy Corner is within the main space.
Warehouse acoustics. It gets noisy, especially during breaks.
BSL and captioning not currently confirmed.
Stage not accessible by ramp. Key moments moved to floor level.
Photography and video throughout the day.
Live event energy. The pace is real and unpredictable.

We believe informed choice is part of accessibility. If any of the above means SpicyCon is not right for you right now, that is completely valid. No guilt.

Social Access: There is no right way to be here.

Some people will talk to everyone in the room. Some will keep themselves to themselves. Both are welcome.

You do not need permission to:

Attend alone. Sit at the back. Wear headphones or ear defenders.
Use fidget tools. Move seats. Leave a session and come back.
Use the Energy Corner whenever you need to.
Decline every single networking opportunity.
Bring your own food and snacks. Arrive late. Leave early.
Bring a comfort item. Use your preferred name and pronouns.
Not explain yourself to anyone, at any point.

No compulsory networking. No one will be asked to speak, share or participate unless they choose to.

The Energy Corner and outdoor areas are available all day. No explanation needed.

There is an ND meet-up from 4:30pm. It is optional.

Food and Drink

Self-pay, Nothing Included

Dough and Co — gluten-free pizza. On site 11am–2pm. Full allergen info at dou-h.co.uk.

Full Circle Brew Co cafe — directly next door. Open all day.

Alcohol served from 12pm. Non-alcoholic options available all day.

You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. No one will question it.
Severe allergy? Check dou-h.co.uk in advance.

Getting Here: Tapyard, Hoult’s Yard

Tapyard, Warehouse 34, Hoults Yard, Walker Road, Byker, Newcastle NE6 2HL

Taxi and carer drop-off: Hoults Yard security gates, Walker Road (Byker), NE6 2HL. Follow the estate road into the central courtyard. Tapyard is next to Full Circle Brewery.

Metro: Yellow Line, Central Station to Byker Station. Around 10 min walk to Hoults Yard.Bus: Services 1, 12, 39, 40, 62 — Walker Road / Byker area. Check Nexus for live times.

Route is step-free but includes a noticeable gradient. Allow extra time if inclines or mobility affect you.

Full parking and site map in the Accessibility Policy.

Questions

Not sure if something counts as an access need? Ask anyway. You do not need the right words.hello@thespicybraincollective.com · We aim to respond within 2 working days.