Accessibility - where do I start?
You have to embrace the spirit of the Disability Discrimination Act, so don't fight it. Read the Easy Does It guide which will give you some simple, low-cost changed to benefit you and your visitors. further information
Stand out from the crowd
There is so much information about improving the accessibility of your tourism business, it can often seem so overwhelming that you probably put it off for another day - but it doesn't have to be like that.
The perception that accessibility is all about ramps and wide doors is misleading. Barriers to access are often about attitude and service which are easy to rectify through our excellent Welcome All programme.
Letting your customers know exactly what you have through an Access Statement is one of your first starting points and if you wish to increase your business's exposure, you may decide to opt for an official accessibility rating.
Showing a commitment to quality and accessibility will give you business an advantage over others and open your doors to a wide range of potential customers.
Access Statements
An Access or Accessibility Statement is simply a document that describes how your customers can access your business and premises. It should be written, clear and accurate, and above all an honest description of your current facilities and the services you offer. This will enable a potential visitor to make an informed decision as to whether your business meets their particular access needs. It is also very useful to parents with young children and pushchairs and the elderly.
If you are an accommodation business with a quality grading assessment through VisitBritain, the AA or Quality Cumbria you should already have an access statement. For an overview of the access statement view document
VisitBritain has help and guidance for participants completing Access Statements
Sample Access Statement Guest Accommodation
Sample Access Statement Self-Catering
National Accessible Scheme (NAS)
Just as you have a quality grading for your business, you may also choose to achieve a nationally recognised accreditation for your accessibility.
The NAS is a widely recognised scheme that offers reassurance to the potential visitor. It will give you the confidence to promote your facilities as the ratings identify your business to potential customers as one which has been assessed to a national standard. more information on the scheme
