Access

National Accessibility Scheme

Staying One Step Ahead

By 2025, more than one third of the UK's population will be over 55 . We are all living longer, so it is important to recognise that the baby boomers may need a little extra help whilst on holiday.

In response to this, VisitEngland has refreshed the entry-level mobility standard of the National Accessible Scheme (M1). The standard, called ‘One step ahead', will help you increase the appeal of your business - even though you may have steps to the front door or no way of providing a ground floor bedroom.

‘One Step Ahead' will help you see your business from the perspective of older guests and those who are a little less mobile. Taking part in this scheme has many benefits such as a visit from a specialist assessor, and you can stand out from the crowd by using the scheme logo in your marketing. Your business will also be searchable on enjoyengland.com, visitbritain.com and tourismforall.org.uk as accessible accommodation .

What do I need to do to get this rating?

Call Quality in Tourism on 0845 300 6996 or email qualityintourism@gslglobal.com and they will send you a free copy of the ‘One step ahead' booklet. Or log onto www.visitengland.com/onestepahead for more information and a PDF to print and download. You can save £61 if you have an access assessment alongside your quality scheme assessment in this participation year. Enjoy the benefits of ‘One step ahead' for as little as £42 per year

Access Statement 

From April 2007 all providers of quality-assessed accommodation will need to provide an access statement, which should be a clear and honest written description of current facilities and services offered.

By providing an Access Statement you can help all visitors who have specific access requirements plan a day out to your attraction or overnight stay at your accommodation. These may be people who have a disability such as hearing loss and arthritis; wheelchair users; mothers with pushchairs; older people.
Full information and templates relating to Access Statements can be found at www.enjoyengland.com/corporate/corporate-information/Industry_Services/Sustainability-and-Accessibility/Accessible-Tourism/Access-Statements.aspx.


What is an Access Statement?

An Access Statement is a clear, accurate, and above all honest description of your current facilities and the services you offer. This statement enables a potential visitor to make an informed decision as to whether your business meets their particular access needs.

To see example go to http://www.enjoyengland.com/corporate/corporate-information/Industry_Services/Sustainability-and-Accessibility/Accessible-Tourism/Examples-of-Access-Statements.aspx