VisitEngland And The National Autistic Society Launch Guide To Help Tourism Businesses

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VisitEngland and the National Autistic Society and England’s Inclusive Tourism Action Group are today launching a web-based guide to help tourism businesses overcome barriers to welcoming autistic people.

VisitEngland publication cover image of man, woman and boy and girl, both children with painted faces Photo. VisitEngland.

VisitEngland and the National Autistic Society and England’s Inclusive Tourism Action Group are today launching a web-based guide to help tourism businesses overcome barriers to welcoming autistic people.

The 'Welcoming Autistic People' guide will help tourism operators to increase business by better understanding autism and making appropriate improvements.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:

“By following the tips in this new guide, businesses can offer autistic people and their families and friends the very best experiences when visiting our attractions, accommodation and tourism businesses, increasing the value this important sector brings to tourism and the economy across England.”

Daniel Cadey, Autism Access Development Manager at the National Autistic Society, said:

“We were delighted to have been able to work on this important guide for businesses that will benefit autistic people and their families.

“Over 700,000 people are on the autism spectrum in the UK and many would love to visit heritage sites and other tourist attractions but are prevented from doing so because unfamiliar and unpredictable places make them extremely anxious. Our recent research revealed that 79% of autistic people and 70% of family members feel socially isolated because they are unable to access places others take for granted.“

The Welcoming Autistic People guide provides tourism businesses with tips and practical advice including the provision of visual stories, quiet spaces, ear defenders and sensory backpacks to help autistic people and their families prepare for and enjoy a visit.

VisitEngland research in 2015 showed that £12 billion was spent on trips where a member of the party had an impairment.

Download the Welcoming Autistic People guide in PDF format. (590 Kb).  

Background information

  • The National Autistic Society challenges attitudes and is helping to build a society that works for autistic people by transforming lives and being a trusted source of support and practical advice for autistic children and adults, as well as their families and carers. The National Autistic Society challenges attitudes by campaigning through national branches and working with businesses and policy-makers to change laws and deliver better services.
  • England’s Inclusive Tourism Action Group comprises a range of leading accessible tourism stakeholders who share the vision for England to provide world-class inclusive tourism experiences that every person with accessibility requirements can enjoy.

ENAT Member logoVisitEngland is an Associate Member of ENAT

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