MAKING it easier for disabled people to holiday is not only a social responsibility but a major opportunity for businesses, the tourism minister has said.

Fergus Ewing said fewer than a fifth of people with disabilities in the UK were able to enjoy an annual holiday, with many of them unable to do so because of a lack of suitable places to stay.

Businesses providing accommodation for this group would be helping ensure that everyone can enjoy a break away, he said, adding there was also an opportunity for tourism businesses to win new custom.

Ewing made the comments as the Scottish Parliament debated the issue of accessible tourism, telling MSPs: “There are 11 million disabled people living in the UK, 16 per cent of the population. Only two million of them enjoy an annual holiday.

“Looking at it on the global stage there are 1.3 billion people with a disability – an emerging market the size of China.”

He said spending by the group on tourism had risen from £325million in 2009-10 to £391million last year, an increase of of £66million.

Meanwhile, more than 600 businesses have signed up for an online training programme which has been developed with £45,000 of Scottish Government cash.

The free course aims to give tourism workers the skills they need to help visitors with special requirements, such as disabled people, the elderly and families with young children, providing practical advice such as the need for hotels to provide bowls of water for guide dogs.

By understanding the needs of these travellers, companies can boost their business, Ewing said.

He told MSPs: “Once disabled people have found accommodation that suits their needs they can be loyal customers, returning year on year.

“It is estimated around 70 per cent of disabled people are able to travel, but because of lack of accessible accommodation and basic facilities they do not.

“First of all, and most important of all, it is a matter of social responsibility to seek to enable and facilitate the enjoyment of a holiday or break for everyone, including people with a disability.

“Secondly, by doing so we create business opportunities for the whole sector.”

Labour’s Jenny Marra also highlighted the “real benefits” to the economy that could come.

“Better accessibility means higher occupancy rates for hotels and loyal customers who keep returning,” she said.

“Accessible tourism reflects true equality and long term sustainable trade.”

Nanette Milne, Conservative MSP for North East Scotland, said “There’s still a long way to go if Scotland is to become the most accessible tourist destination in Europe, but the recognition of training needs within tourism businesses and the efforts being made to ensure that the industry recognises the all-round benefits to businesses and their customers from maximising accessibility are significant steps in the right direction.”

Source: Daily Record