What is an Access Statement?

An Access Statement should not be viewed as a daunting task – it is simply writing down facilities and services that you provide for your guests and shows good customer service for all.  Start off simply and add to it over time, it doesn’t have to look like the examples shown below as these are only examples to show what can be done to give you an idea and guidance.   We have a duty to promote best practice which is why some of the examples are long and detailed.   You might decide for your business that some of the details are not necessary – this is fine as only you know your business and its needs.   The more details however the more use the statement will be to a variety of people.

One of the ‘real examples’ supplied to us and attached below was written in 20 minutes by the operator so it doesn’t have to take a long time either.

Just give it a go!

• An introduction – to help you with understanding access statements – what it is, why you need one, who it is intended for, how to write one, and where to publish it. (PDF file 300KB)

• A standard template which you can use to help you structure your Access Statement. It gives help and suggestions with items to consider including. (opens a new window)

• Sample Access Statements – Examples of access statements using the template

• More help and advice  - Downloadable self surveys and National Accessible Scheme criteria 

• Further contacts – for any extra help regarding accessibility you may need (PDF file 45KB)

Don’t forget accessible accommodation is not just about providing access for people in wheelchairs.  Many of those who have rights under the Disability Discrimination Act do not choose to use the term ‘disabled’ about themselves.  Indeed under DDA the law protects people of all ages with mobility and sensory impairments, learning disabilities, mental health issues and progressive conditions e.g. Cancer, AIDS, from discrimination. It can cover people with heart disease, diabetes, severe disfigurement, depression, schizophrenia, dyslexia, epilepsy and Down’s syndrome. By providing an access statement you can help all of your guests who have a specific access requirement.

We recommend that before using the template you may find it helpful to have a look at the sample access statements to give you an idea of what your Access Statement may look like.

Within the template there are many suggested items to consider putting in your access statement, you are not required to cover everything that is contained in the ‘suggested things to consider and describe’ for each section.  These are merely suggestions and you must use your judgement as to what information your guests/visitors need about your business.  Remember to listen to your guests and what they ask about, this will give you some good hints of what to include in your access statement.  Finally, remember to keep your statement simple, clear and concise.

Further advice could be sought from your local access group if required.

If you have any comments about the information, documents and template provided please email QAD@visitbritain.org.  We value your comments and will read your emails and action where appropriate but cannot always guarantee a personal response.

For word documents of the text in the template please click here