Sligo BID seeks Accessibility Mapping Officer

Accessibility Mapping Officer (Fixed-Term Project)

Location: Sligo Town
Duration: End of July – End of September 2026 (approximately 8–9 weeks)
Budget: €2,500 fixed project fee.

Contract Basis: This is a contract-for-services arrangement. The successful applicant will be engaged as an independent contractor and will be responsible for their own tax affairs and for providing the equipment required to complete the project.

Reports to: Night-Time Economy (NTE) Advisor / Sligo BID

Project Overview

Sligo BID is seeking an organised, approachable and detail-oriented individual to undertake a town-wide accessibility mapping project. The successful applicant will visit businesses throughout Sligo Town to gather information on accessibility features and inclusive supports, creating a comprehensive database that will inform a future accessibility map for residents and visitors.

The completed project will celebrate businesses that have invested in accessibility and inclusivity while encouraging others to consider improvements. A particular focus will be placed on businesses operating within the Night-Time Economy (NTE), including pubs, restaurants, cafés, clubs, live music venues and event spaces.

The project will draw inspiration from international best standard such as AccessAble, adapted to suit the needs of Sligo Town.

Key Responsibilities

  • Visit businesses throughout Sligo Town to complete accessibility surveys.
  • Build positive relationships with business owners and staff while gathering information through short conversations and observations.
  • Record accessibility information including (but not limited to):
    • Wheelchair accessibility
    • Step-free entrances
    • Accessible toilets
    • Neurodivergent-friendly or quiet hours
    • Hearing loops or other communication supports
    • Sensory-friendly measures
    • Baby changing and nappy changing facilities
    • Other accessibility or inclusive features
  • Focus particularly on Night-Time Economy businesses, including:
    • Pubs
    • Clubs
    • Restaurants
    • Cafés
    • Event venues
    • Entertainment venues
  • Update the existing map of public defibrillator locations (current map will be provided).
  • With the permission of businesses, photograph entrances and key access points to support future visitors in planning their visit.
  • Maintain accurate digital records of all survey information.
  • Provide a short weekly progress update to the NTE Advisor.
  • Complete the full survey and final database by the end of September.

Deliverables

By the end of the project, the successful applicant will provide:

  • A comprehensive database of surveyed businesses.
  • Accessibility information for participating businesses.
  • Updated locations of public defibrillators.
  • Information on businesses with baby changing/nappy changing facilities.
  • Photographs (where permission has been granted) of entrances and access points.
  • A final report summarising the project and identifying notable accessibility initiatives and opportunities.

This information will be used by Sligo BID to develop a publicly accessible town map highlighting inclusive businesses and accessible facilities throughout Sligo Town.

Person Specification

Essential

  • Friendly, confident and comfortable approaching businesses.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Highly organised with strong time management skills.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to accurately record information.
  • Pleasantly persistent when engaging busy businesses.
  • Able to work independently and manage their own schedule.
  • Comfortable walking throughout Sligo Town and visiting multiple premises each day.
  • Competent using smartphones, tablets or digital forms for data collection.
  • An understanding of accessibility and inclusive design principles.
  • Respectful of confidentiality and professional in representing Sligo BID.

Desirable

  • Experience in accessibility, disability inclusion, community development or surveying.
  • Knowledge of universal design and accessibility best practice.
  • Photography skills.
  • Familiarity with mapping or GIS software.

Working Arrangements

This is a flexible, project-based role. The successful applicant may set their own working hours, recognising that many businesses are easiest to engage outside of peak trading periods.

The successful applicant will:

  • Work independently.
  • Provide a brief weekly update to the NTE Advisor.
  • Ensure all project deliverables are completed by the end of September.

Contractor Responsibilities

As this is a fixed-fee project, the successful applicant will be engaged as an independent contractor and will be responsible for:

  • Their own income tax, PRSI, USC, VAT (where applicable) and any other statutory obligations arising from the project.
  • Providing and using their own smartphone for data collection, photography and communication.
  • Providing and using their own laptop or computer for maintaining digital records, compiling the project database and preparing the final report.
  • Their own travel and any incidental expenses unless otherwise agreed in advance by Sligo BID.

Project Aim

The long-term aim of this project is to create a publicly available accessibility map of Sligo Town that helps residents and visitors confidently plan their visit. By showcasing businesses that have embraced accessibility and inclusive practices, the project seeks to promote best practice, encourage continuous improvement across the town, and support Sligo’s vision as a welcoming and inclusive destination for everyone.

Application Process

To apply for this role, candidates must submit the following to Edel at edel@sligobid.ie before July 17th:

  • An up-to-date CV.
  • A cover letter (maximum one page) outlining their relevant experience and suitability for the position.
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