/Web guide to help break down the barriers for autistic people

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

The ‘Welcoming Autistic People’ guide will help tourism operators better understand autism and make 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 per cent of autistic people and 70 per cent 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.

To download the guide go to visitengland.org/access