Launch of Vision Charity Hotel Group
There are over 10 million disabled people* in the UK and with the Paralympics coming in 2012, what better time for not-for-profit group, Vision Hotels which specialises in accessible travel, to launch.
The Group, run by national sight loss charity Action for Blind People, has four AA 3 star hotels across England. Experts in providing accessible breaks, Vision Hotels is passionate that everyone should have the right to a holiday, regardless of disability.
All too often, disabled people’s needs are ignored within the hospitality industry; how many restaurants can claim their menus or premises are fully accessible? Vision Hotels understands accessibility, especially with regards to visual impairment and its hotels have made simple adaptations to ensure that guests can relax and enjoy their stay.
Each hotel provides what you would expect from a standard hotel – but with a little bit more. Straightforward adjustments such as wet rooms and textured surfaces have been made and facilities such as talking alarm clocks, large button phones and superb dog areas are available throughout the Group.
Paul Morrison, Head of Vision Hotels, said: “I wish it was the case that Vision Hotels’ attention to accessibility was the norm, but sadly it isn’t. Accessibility is continually ignored within the sector and we can prove that simple adaptations can make a big difference and in turn, increase guest numbers.
Paul Morrison, continued: “There is also a common misconception that hotels like ours are institutionalised, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We have the same aims as anyone else in the catering and hospitality sector: to provide an excellent level of service that makes our customers re-book time and time again.”
The hotels are located in Teignmouth in South Devon, Aldwick near Bognor Regis, Weston Super-Mare and Lake Windermere. One of the key elements of the success of the hotels is the staff, who all go through an extensive training programme including Visual Awareness training from Action for Blind People.
Throughout the hotel staff are responsible for ensuring the environment remains accessible. This ranges from front of house staff guiding visitors, through to chefs being sensitive to the presentation of food. Attention to detail is paramount and it’s vital that hallways and public areas are kept free from obstructions.
But Vision Hotels doesn’t just stop at providing accessible accommodation. It has recently launched the first ever fully accessible website and booking system, meaning that customers now have the flexibility to decide how and when they want to book.
The hotels provide an inclusive environment for everyone and set an example for the rest of the hospitality sector to strive towards.
For more details visit www.visionhotels.co.uk
Valere Tjolle
Valere Tjolle is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite, special offer at: www.travelmole.com/stories/1142003.php
Valere
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