Hotels in Scotland Failing Disabled Guests: New Research Reveals
Nearly two-thirds (62%) of disabled travellers in Scotland say the hotels they’ve stayed in failed to meet their accessibility needs. That’s the shocking finding from new Europe-wide research by Handiscover, a leading authority on accessibility and disability data.
Handiscover is now urging the hotel industry to overhaul how they cater to disabled guests as travel bounces back post-Covid. Better accessibility and clearer information are urgently needed, the survey reveals.
Huge Market Overlooked: £196 Billion Opportunity at Stake
With over 14 million people in the UK living with long-term illnesses or disabilities requiring specific accessibility, the hospitality sector is missing a massive trick. Handiscover warns that improving accessibility across travel could boost the EU economy by up to 25% — a staggering €196 billion windfall.
Handiscover Launches Free Accessibility Standard for Hotels
To help hotels get up to speed, Handiscover has unveiled a free ‘Accessibility Standard’, designed to help businesses improve facilities and information on their own. Those wanting more hands-on support can join Handiscover’s Accessibility Management Program.
- Accessibility data management and assessments
- Marketing expertise to reach disabled customers
- Disability and accessibility education for staff
Magnus Berglund, Accessibility Director at Handiscover, says:
“Improving accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s great for business too. Our program helps hotels easily up their game and make life better for millions living with disabilities.”
Staff Training Is a Big Letdown
The research also found 58% of disabled guests felt hotel staff lacked knowledge about accessibility needs. This gap underlines why education and training are crucial not just in hotels, but across the service industries.
Handiscover CEO Sebastien Archambeaud added:
“We want to show businesses that improving accessibility isn’t a costly burden. It’s a smart way to attract more customers and grow revenue.”
If the hotel industry listens, it could create a far more inclusive travel experience — and cash in on a booming market currently being ignored.
