IN FOCUS


Disability advocate Sophie Morgan at Àni


Dominican Republic Credit: Àni Private Resorts


ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL On the right path


The luxury sector is making progress in catering for disabled customers but still has some way to go to fully serve this lucrative sector, says Erica Rich


Government statistics suggest there are about 16 million people living with disabilities in the UK, representing 24% of the population. Just like everybody else, they want to travel. Far from a niche sector, this is a community with both influence and spending power, yet it’s currently extremely underserved. The luxury sector in particular claims to


be experts in intuitive, personalised service, but how far are brands going to ensure those with both visible and hidden disabilities are receiving a five-star experience – and, more importantly, how do we improve?


Educating the industry Leading industry experts agree conversations around inclusivity have heightened in the past few years, but say a gap still remains when it comes to tangible results. “I don’t think the industry has embraced disability; I think there’s still a stigma,” says Alison Pearson, head of travel services and support at luxury agency Inclu Travel, where she works with both case managers and clients to


arrange high-end holidays for those with disabilities. “There are a lot more conversations that need


I think [the problem] is fear – people are


frightened of getting it wrong


to be had and the industry still needs educating,” she says. “I definitely think it is talked about a lot more now but I still feel [there are misconceptions]. Disability doesn’t just come from an injury, people become disabled by ageing as well. And it’s not just regarding mobility problems. There’s a whole spectrum [of disabilities], from autism to hearing and visual. The more it’s talked about, the more people will become engaged. I think [the problem] is fear – people are frightened of getting it wrong.” The agency recently introduced IncluCare


Verification, a stamp of approval for preferred partners who embrace what it terms “conscious inclusivity”. Businesses must demonstrate an investment in equipment and modifications, and put their staff through Inclu’s disability awareness training. The agency says the verification allows brands to “manifest trust and confidence in an incredibly competitive environment” and distinguish themselves as inclusive “leaders”, attracting “a totally new ª


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JANUARY 2024 ASPIRE 29


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