🌳Summer Holiday Support - Accessible Days Out For Parents & Carers of Disabled Children🌳

Mary_Scope

Part One An Introduction for Parents & Carers of Disabled Children

Finding fun, inclusive and accessible days out can be a challenge but there does seem to be an increasing number of places that are becoming more accessible and inclusive for disabled children and their families😄

I hope this post makes it easier to find and plan fun days out that are able to meet you and your family's needs!

Popular Accessible Days Out in the UK

• Merlin Attractions
  Merlin Attractions (including LEGOLAND®, Alton Towers and SEA LIFE Centres)
  Offer a ride access pass and have detailed accessibility guides. Many include Changing Places toilets and sensory spaces.
  
• National Trust (Nationwide) and Cadw (Wales)
  Many National Trust and Cadw properties across the UK have accessible paths, adapted facilities and sensory experiences. Many also offer a free companion ticket.
  
• Cinema
  May cinemas offer relaxed screenings for autistic people and the adjustments can include a more relaxed environment with low lighting and quieter sound. Other adjustments at the cinema may include subtitled screeenings and audio described screenings. You may also be able to have a free companian ticket if you have a CEA Card
  
• Accessible Walks
  If you and your family prefer to be out and about in nature then here are some good websites for accessible walking trails across Wales, 10 Best wheelchair accessible trails in England, easy access trails in England and accessible walking routes in the Lake District

Where To Find Accessible Days Out?

• Euans Guide
  Euan's Guide is a great disabled access review site that covers everything from toilets to staff helpfulness that can make planning and finding a day out feel less overwhelming!
  
• AccessAble
  AccessAble gives detailed accessibility guides for thousands of places across the UK, including photos and step-by-step access details
  
• Social Media
  Parents often share hidden gems and first hand tips and experiences about certain places that you won't be able find out on the official websites so its definitely worth having a look on facebook groups and instagram pages!

Some other tips are to call ahead to confirm access details, because advertised features may vary in practice. Look for “quiet hours” or “SEN sessions” at venues like museums, soft play or trampoline parks as these offer a calmer environment and always ask about carer tickets because many places offer free or discounted entry with the right documentation!!

I hope this has been helpful!

Do you have any other tips about finding an accessible day out or can you recommend somewhere you've been where you and family have had great experience?😄