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Disabled Access Day is an annual event, raising awareness of the access issues faced by many disabled people. The first event was held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 and over 200 organisations took part across the UK and further afield. Following on from the success of the pilot, the second event more than quadrupled in size and was held on March 12th 2016.The next Disabled Access Day will be an extended weekend of activities of 10 - 12th March 2017.
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Disabled Access Day came about after Paul Ralph, a powerchair user and Euan's Guide supporter, went to a ‘try it out day’ at his local bus company:
“Prior to this, I had not used the bus network in my hometown because I was unsure how the ramp operated, how ticketing worked and if my powerchair would fit. I attended a demonstration organised by the local bus company with the opportunity to explore a stationary bus. Extra staff were on hand to explain the process of getting on and off safely. There was ample time to become more familiar with the layout of the bus and with what you need to know as a wheelchair using passenger. I’m now a frequent bus user.
Chatting with friends, I thought how great it would be if there were similar initiatives, including some more informal events, happening across the country on one specific day. The idea of encouraging disabled people to also try something new that day appeared and out of it came the idea of Disabled Access Day.”
In 2015, the Westminster parliament passed a motion in support of the event. The motion highlighted that several major attractions such as Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral had signed up. Other businesses included: coffee shops across the UK offering free coffees to a range of attractions and theatres who ran special offers on admission rates. The Tate Modern offered free parking with free guided tours for visitors who were disabled and touch tours for anyone who was visually impaired.
Euan's Guide
Disabled Access Day is powered by Euan's Guide, the disabled access review website and app. Euan's Guide was founded by Euan MacDonald, a powerchair user, and his sister Kiki. Information about accessibility for all places that hold events on Disabled Access Day can be found on the Euan's Guide website.
Disabled Access Day 2017
The third annual Disabled Access Day has been extended to take place over the weekend 10-12 March 2017, not only in the UK but worldwide.
Find your nearest participating venue on the Disabled Access Day website: www.disabledaccessday.com/event-search
Awards and Shortlists
Cracking Campaign, The Scottish Charity Awards 2016