All we want for Christmas is good service.... say disabled people taking part in Capability Scotland's Project SANTA
19 December 2012
Positive attitudes, clear information and accessible parking and toilets are top of the Christmas wish list for disabled Scots who are out and about this festive season.
That's according to Capability Scotland who have published the
findings of Project SANTA (Search for Accessible Noel Themed
Attractions) today (19th December).
Now the disability organisation has drafted some New Year's
resolutions for businesses to help them ensure their services are
accessible all year round.
Capability Scotland launched Project SANTA to find out if
families, including a disabled person, could enjoy all the
traditional activities associated with the run up to Christmas
including shopping, visits to Santa and festive events.
The report brings glad tidings as many of the people who took
part in the project had very positive things to say about their
experiences. In particular people noted that the friendly,
helpful attitude of staff made shopping trips and days out much
more enjoyable.
They did, however, report a few Christmas turkeys including,
accessible toilets being locked, poor availability of suitable
parking and a lack of clear accessible information.
Capability Scotland Director of External Affairs, Richard Hamer,
said: "It's always nice to spread some good cheer at Christmas and,
based on our anecdotal evidence, it seems that many festive
attractions are trying hard to make sure everyone can enjoy the
fun.
"However, there is no room for complacency and our report did
flag up some issues that are a constant problem for disabled people
such as locked toilets and problems with parking. Lets hope
organisers and service providers take these on board so disabled
people can enjoy good access all year round and not just at
Christmas!"