77 percent of disabled people say venue websites provide confusing or inaccurate details
Euan’s Guide’s latest research exposes the hurdles disabled people encounter when planning accessible leisure and the resources that help.
For many, summer represents a season of spontaneous outings, family adventures, and new discoveries. However, for the UK’s 16 million disabled people, this sense of freedom is often overshadowed by barriers and frustrations, according to Euan’s Guide.
The research found that the joy of planning a summer trip can quickly become a source of stress. Four in five respondents have experienced a disappointing trip or had to change or cancel plans because of poor accessibility.
Over two-thirds also said the lack of disabled access has directly impacted their trip. The research was supported by the Motability Scheme and features responses from 6,500 disabled people, their families, and carers from across the UK.
Additionally, 77 percent said venue websites had provided confusing or inaccurate details, while 90 percent said they had to research access in advance every time they visited a new location.
Lisa Thomas, Chief Customer Officer at Motability Operations, said: “We know how valuable days out are – for mental health, for connection, for a sense of belonging. But it’s not just about enjoying the summer, access to transport can provide a lifeline to those who need it most, keeping them connected to work, family and the world around them.”
Resources like Euan’s Guide and The Rough Guide to Accessible Britain, created in partnership with the Motability Scheme, are designed to provide valuable information to help tackle this issue.
The Rough Guide includes over 200 ideas for accessible days out – from nature reserves and museums to theme parks and tours. Every review is written by someone with lived experience of disability.
Vanessa, a customer on the Motability Scheme, commented: “I know from first-hand experience that even planning a simple day out can be a very challenging and stressful experience for someone with a disability.
“You try to prepare as much as possible, getting confirmation of what ‘accessibility’ means or looks like, only to find out that the accessible features are not what you expected, or not available due to being broken or out of service.
“It can be very disappointing and really affect your enjoyment of an occasion.”
That is why resources such as Euan’s Guide and The Rough Guide are invaluable. They provide disabled people with the information they need to plan with confidence, offering a clear picture of accessible places to visit. More than simple guidebooks, these tools play a vital role in enabling people to leave their homes, explore new destinations, and embrace spontaneous opportunities, Euan’s Guide states.
However, information alone is not sufficient. Accessible transport is equally essential, ensuring that disabled people can reach leisure facilities, attend social events, and travel independently.
According to the Motability Scheme, access to independent mobility is made possible through its programme, which enables people receiving a qualifying mobility allowance to lease an accessible car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), powered wheelchair, or scooter. It says this support provides the freedom and independence to enjoy not only holidays, but also everyday life — from travelling to work and attending hospital appointments, to staying connected with family and friends.
Research revealed that nearly half of families with someone who has accessibility requirements reported avoiding travelling abroad over the past year due to accessibility concerns across airports, airlines, and hotels.