Published on: 28/05/20
During the covid pandemic, we look forward to the time when lockdown can lift and we can visit new places. But for many disabled people, finding accurate information about a venue’s accessibility is a major stumbling block to visiting somewhere new, according to the results of the 2019 Access Survey.
Euansguide.com is a disabled access review guide, where disabled people and their carers can find and share reviews of accessible venues, helping them plan days out or find good places to eat, for example.
Over 1,000 people took part in the 2019 Access Survey, sharing their views on disabled access in the UK and some of the challenges people face when visiting somewhere new.
Over 93% of those surveyed said they try to find information about a venue’s accessibility before visiting – with 77% finding this information was often lacking or out of date, resulting in a disappointing visit or changing plans last minute. More than half (53%) of disabled people have been left feeling unconfident about visiting new places.
The survey results show venues could be doing more to improve their accessibility, said Euan MacDonald, co-founder of Euan’s Guide.
“Simple steps like sharing detailed and accurate disabled access information can make all the difference. Businesses should use this as an opportunity to consider and address some of the main barriers to access that people can face by including information on the building’s entrance, layout and toilet facilities.
“It helps everyone when places are honest and upfront about what they can and cannot provide for their visitors.”
