Call for London to be world’s top city for accessibility information
On 6 December, AccessAble launched a London initiative and a call to action for organisations across the capital to provide accessibility information. The launch, held in the same week as International Day of Disabled People, highlighted the existing commitment of many organisations across Greater London to provide comprehensive accessibility information to the UK’s 20 million disabled people and carers.
The brand new AccessAble website and App, launched at the event, already contains accessibility information to over 10,000 places within the M25. Each one has been visited and assessed by an AccessAble surveyor and has a comprehensive multi-disability Access Guide where people can check everything from accessible toilet facilities, to parking, lift and entrances. Users can check measurements, photographs and descriptions of everything from door widths to walking distances, colour contrast and much more.
The website and App, available to use free of charge, has been developed in constant consultation with disabled people. AccessAble has also worked closely with users of assistive technology and the Shaw Trust to ensure both resources are digitally accessible. At present the AccessAble service is used by over 150,000 people every month, with a target to increase users to 3 million p.a by 2020.
The event brought together AccessAble’s existing partners from across the public and private sector, including 21 London Boroughs and the majority of Universities, Colleges and NHS Trusts providing services to Londoners.
Will Tuckley, who commissioned AccessAble’s very first Access Guides in 2002 said:
“It is fantastic to see the progress and development AccessAble has made. I have worked with the organisation at three different local authorities and the service has consistently helped us deliver a range of key priorities, adding value and expertise. We now have an opportunity to come together to make a real difference to the lives of all our residents. I would encourage all remaining London boroughs to become part of the AccessAble London initiative.”
The event showcased the vision of AccessAble’s newest partner South Bank Business Improvement District (BID), the first London BID to give a dedicated focus to accessibility and place it at the heart of welcoming residents and visitors to the South Bank.
Nic Durston, CEO of South Bank BID said:
“The South Bank is the cultural heart of London and a must-visit experience for any visitor, domestic or international. Our vision is to make the South Bank London’s most accessible destination, which is why we’re now investing to provide our many attractions, venues and hotels with the most up-to-date accessibility information through AccessAble.”
As part of the launch, AccessAble shared its recent Accessibility and You Survey, which highlighted the overwhelming demand for accessibility information with 98% of people saying they searched for accessibility information in advance before going somewhere for the first time. It equally revealed the negative impact of poor information with 75% of people saying they felt anxious before going to a new place, and 76% saying they either hadn’t visited somewhere or had needed to leave on arrival due to poor quality, or non existent information.
Speaking at the event Dr Gregory Burke, Founder of AccessAble said:
“We want London to be recognised as the city that has the world’s best accessibility information and sets a global standard that other cities will aspire to. We want to make sure that wherever you want to visit, or whichever borough you live in, London is a city for everyone. I implore those organisations that do not provide essential detailed accessibility information to look at what we have achieved and to join us in our vision to make London open for all.”
To check out the new service simply visit the website at www.AccessAble.co.uk or download the AccessAble App from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
