New access guides for Windsor and Eton have been launched at the Learning Centre, Windsor Castle. Developed by Visit Windsor and AccessAble, the guides provide detailed information to assist people with access requirements to plan their journeys to, and around, both towns.
Detailed descriptions of local retail and hospitality businesses, transport hubs and tourist attractions make it easier for disabled people and carers to access local services and facilities, enhancing their experience of Windsor and Eton. The access guides are free to download via VisitWindsor’s website and on the AccessAble mobile application.
AccessAble’s surveying team collected information, figures, and photographs from parking facilities and hearing loops, to walking distances and accessible toilets. While primarily focused on mobility, sensory, learning difficulty and mental health requirements to assist disabled people and carers, the guides are also relevant for older people and those with anxiety.
Councillor Samantha Rayner, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for business, corporate and residents’ services, culture and heritage commented, “Disabled people and carers can confidently make informed choices when planning to visit the historic heart of our fantastic Royal Borough. Local businesses and attractions already take access and inclusivity seriously – this partnership project gathers all relevant information in one place.
“Access journeys into and throughout a venue are described step-by-step from the perspective of mobility, sensory, learning difficulty and mental health needs. My thanks go to the VisitWindsor team and AccessAble for this informed and valuable resource supporting the Royal Borough’s commitment to greater diversity, inclusion and accessibility.”
AccessAble’s website and App will provide an enhanced experience for everyone, crucially giving people access to detail on the go.
David Livermore, Director of Business Development at AccessAble said, “We were delighted to partner VisitWindsor in developing access guides for Windsor and Eton. These leading tourism destinations are the first to consider town centre access needs of visitors and residents jointly. We hope other organisations will follow VisitWindsor’s lead and support our mission to give disabled people greater freedom in exploring visitor destinations.”
The guides have been developed with input from the Disability and Inclusion Forum. Vice-Chair Lisa Hughes said, “The Windsor & Eton access guides are packed with comprehensive, factual information about whether and how a venue meets individual access needs. This will benefit local businesses and attractions as more people will have the confidence to visit and spend money here.”
Additionally, AccessAble provided ‘Disability Essentials’ online training to local businesses not currently providing their own in-house training. This equipped 250 people to engage with disabled people confidently and using appropriate skills.
Click here to find out more about accessibility in Windsor.
