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Self-catering getaways have become a big hit, especially post-pandemic. People are now looking for the perfect mix of freedom, comfort, and safety, and self-catering spots have become the top pick for a fantastic holiday.
Self-catering breaks in the UK are big business. Since the pandemic, there's been a big shift in how people like to travel, with many people and families choosing places where they can have their own space and feel secure. This isn't a passing fad; it's a real change in how people view and value their travel adventures.
There's a huge variety of self-catering spots to choose from, which is a big part of their charm. You have everything from cosy cottages in beautiful rural spots to sleek city apartments that give you a taste of the high life. Whatever you're into, there's something out there for you, whether you're after peace and quiet or the buzz of the city.
For those running these places, it's key to get on board with this trend. Getting the hang of what people want in a unique and personal holiday spot is your ticket to doing well.
Owners need to make sure their place fits everyone's needs. In this blog, we're diving into how focusing on accessibility isn't just about meeting travellers' expectations—it's also a smart move for your place in the booming UK self-catering scene.
This shift in guests' needs and expectations is brought home by Visit Britain rolling out Accessibility Guides, which help make the info accommodations provide clearer and more useful for everyone.
Considering there are about 13.3 million disabled people in the UK, which is roughly one in every five people, it's important to help guests figure out if your holiday spot is right for them. These Accessibility Guides are a big win for owners and holiday-goers, bringing honesty to the forefront and helping people make solid choices about where to stay. As we dig into why accessibility matters, these guides stand out as a key part of understanding and offering self-catering stays in the UK.
Accessibility in self-catering accommodation goes beyond ramps and physical adaptations; it's about making sure that every guest, regardless of their unique needs, can fully enjoy their holiday experience. The key to this is helping those searching for self-catering accommodation quickly and easily understand whether your cottage has all the features they need.
This inclusivity doesn't only apply to wheelchair users. It covers various criteria that could affect the requirements someone has for your property. Whether it's a physical disability, an unseen disability, vulnerable families, or elderly guests, each category of visitors will have distinct needs that some cottages may cater to better than others. By providing clear and detailed information about your property's accessibility features, you make it easier for them to work out whether it’s the right spot for them.
Making your self-catering place meet the rules isn't just ticking boxes—it's about welcoming everyone. The Equality Act 2010, which took over from the Disability Discrimination Act, is all about protecting people who have disabilities, might seem to have them, or are close to someone who does.
If you're running a holiday cottage, it's important to consider adjustments that can enhance the experience for disabled guests. The Equality Act 2010 is comprehensive in its coverage, ensuring that a wide array of disabilities is acknowledged and accommodated. As an owner, this means you should think inclusively about your guests' needs. Disabilities, as defined by the Act, encompass a broad spectrum of conditions that impact daily life, whether they be long-term physical impairments, mental health conditions, sensory disabilities such as those affecting sight or hearing, cognitive impairments, learning difficulties, or hidden disabilities like epilepsy, diabetes, and chronic pain conditions.
The Act extends to conditions that are not immediately apparent, such as respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, that can limit a person's ability to perform daily tasks. Neurodiverse conditions like autism and ADHD are also recognised. It’s crucial to understand that the Act covers not only permanent disabilities but also temporary injuries and conditions that may affect a person’s mobility or functioning in the short term.
In practice, this means making sure that your property is not only physically accessible but also considerate of those with non-physical needs. For example, providing clear signage and information in simple language can help those with cognitive disabilities. Incorporating quiet areas or sensory rooms can be a boon for guests with autism. Thinking about accessibility holistically and recognising the diversity of disabilities under the Equality Act 2010 is vital. It's about ensuring everyone, regardless of their unique challenges, can enjoy everything your property offers.
Educating yourself on the Act is key because it's not just about one kind of discrimination. Knowing the ins and outs means you can make the right changes ahead of time, dodge any legal issues, and ensure everyone has a great, hassle-free stay.
When people look for a self-catering spot, they usually have certain needs in mind. So it's important to be upfront about what your place offers in terms of accessibility. Make sure to shout out things like no-step entry bathrooms they can use and handy stuff like ramps or handrails. Being clear about these details not only builds trust with people looking to rent but also means they know exactly what they're getting into.
Starting with a solid Accessibility Statement is a key step for any property owner in the self-catering business. You might wonder where you’d even start with an Accessibility Statement, so we’re here to help. The main task is to articulate all the accessibility features of your property, especially if you're new to it or unsure about what to highlight.
In your Accessibility Statement, you should aim to provide a clear and detailed description of your property's current accessibility features, like the width of doorways, the presence of steps or ramps, the height of beds and furniture, types of door handles, and the availability of visual or auditory aids. Explain your property’s layout to ensure guests with mobility issues know whether they can access all areas easily. Mention any special equipment you have, like shower chairs or portable hearing loops.
It's also important to include information on the local area's accessibility - like nearby attractions with accessible features, accessible public transport options, and even the terrain around the property. Be honest about any potential barriers and offer solutions or workarounds you've put in place.
Think of your Accessibility Statement as a guide that not only informs but reassures potential guests that their needs have been considered and met to the best of your ability. Offering this level of detail shows your commitment to inclusivity and can make all the difference in providing a welcoming experience for all guests.
But here's the good news—VisitBritain has a template for their new Accessibility Guides. These guides are a lifesaver for owners, giving you a clear outline of how to share the accessible perks of your place. Using this template makes the whole thing easier and makes sure you cover all the important bits.
An Accessibility Statement isn't just about following the rules—it's a smart way to attract guests. It shines a light on all the ways your property is easy to get around and lets potential guests know exactly what to expect. In times when everyone's looking for information, a spot-on Accessibility Statement is part of what makes your place special. It shows you care about welcoming everybody, and that can make your spot a top pick for all kinds of travellers. When people are choosing where to stay, finding out a place is accessible can seal the deal. So, flaunt the accessible bits of your property to make sure it stands out in the crowd of accommodation.
Thankfully, self-catering accommodation providers looking to make their properties accessible can turn to a whole host of online resources. VisitBritain's official site offers comprehensive Accessibility Guides and checklists. The National Accessible Scheme (NAS) provides criteria specifically for self-catering accommodation, and websites like Tourism for All and DisabledGo offer advice and audits. Plus, organisations such as the Centre for Accessible Environments and the Equality and Human Rights Commission provide guidelines on legal compliance and best practices. Engaging with online forums and groups dedicated to accessible tourism can also offer peer support and innovative solutions.
Going for diversity in your design isn't just about looks - it's about making spaces everyone can feel good in. They should be easy to get to, affordable, safe, and simple to use. Inclusive design isn't just about adding ramps or bars; it's about weaving accessibility into the place's vibe.
How rooms and hallways are laid out is important - they should help people get around, not get in the way. This means details like no-step entries, levers instead of doorknobs, ramps, and hallways that are wide enough for wheelchairs and pushchairs. And, don't forget outside - things like benches give everyone a spot to take a break and enjoy the space.
The trick is to blend in these accessibility features so they don't stick out. Things like light switches at the right height, alarms that vibrate for those who can't hear, and other smart touches should feel like a natural part of the place. When you get this right, your self-catering spot becomes a welcoming space for all types of guests, making everyone's visit relaxing and fun.
As we’ve seen, accessibility is about more than just ramps and wide doorways. If you own a place, you must look at the whole guest experience. Can guests with hearing issues easily chat with you? Are your instructions easy to follow for those with cognitive disabilities? Covering all these bases makes your service accessible to all.
Those extra steps you take to welcome everyone can make your property the go-to place for a whole range of different travellers.
Understanding the business impact of accessibility in self-catering accommodation isn’t just about compliance; it's a strategic move that can boost your property's success. Getting input and advice from others is key when making your place more accessible. By making your property friendly for guests with disabilities, you're opening the doors to a whole new group of people. This means more bookings and more cash in the bank. The upfront cost for accessibility upgrades might seem steep, but there are some fairly hassle-free and affordable 'quick wins', and the payoff down the line is huge. As travel trends change, so do what guests expect. Make your property a place where everyone feels at home, and you'll see the benefits - in good reviews and your wallet.
The future of accessible self-catering accommodation looks bright and promising. As awareness grows, the demand for inclusive holiday options is set to rise, steering the market towards a more accommodating and universally designed approach. We're looking at a tomorrow where accessibility is not an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of the holiday experience.
Travellers with disabilities or specific needs will no longer have to navigate a maze of unsuitable listings. Instead, they'll find a plethora of options where the details about accessibility are as clear and standard as the list of amenities. Future self-catering accommodations will likely boast smart technology - think voice-activated systems, adjustable countertops, and sensory rooms for guests with autism. These features will not only aid in physical accessibility but also offer comfort for those with sensory and cognitive impairments.
What’s more, the concept of 'invisible' design is gaining traction. This means accessibility features will be smoothly integrated into the property design so they won't be noticeable until needed. Imagine wider doorways that look standard but can comfortably accommodate wheelchairs or showers that anyone would find stylish, yet they have discreet grab bars and seating options.
In the coming years, the successful self-catering accommodations will be those that embrace inclusivity as part of their core offering. The industry is moving towards a future where accessible properties are not just a niche but are part of the mainstream, making sure everyone has the opportunity to travel effortlessly with dignity. With the right commitment and innovation, accessible self-catering accommodations will become a standard, not a speciality.
Making your self-catering spot accessible is important, and picking the right platform to showcase it is just as important. At Lindmere, we know the hospitality industry inside out, and get what you're up against in this fast-changing industry.
Lindmere stands out because we’re all about changing how property owners and renters come together. The brains behind it, Richard and Jane, have been in the self-catering biz for years, so they get what you need. They've used their know-how to build a platform which is all about making life easier for owners.
With Lindmere, you can forget those eye-watering fees that online agencies charge. It's all about giving owners a fair deal - a place to show off your property without the high costs and tight rules you find elsewhere. We’re on a mission to give property owners the power, pulling in renters and making the whole connection smooth and profitable.
Unlike other online agency websites that charge exorbitant commissions ranging from 15-22%, Lindmere offers a cost-effective alternative. We understand the frustration of property owners in getting leads for their business without the hefty price tag. By listing your property on Lindmere, you gain exposure without breaking the bank.
If you're ready to open your doors to a broader audience and showcase your accessible self-catering accommodation, Lindmere is here to help. Join us in creating a more inclusive and diverse landscape in the world of self-catering accommodation.
Contact us now to list your property on Lindmere and take control of your bookings without the burden of high commissions!