UK?s Accessible Tourism market is forecast to see an increase in the number of bookings, as more disabled people are looking forward to taking holidays after the physical and mental stress of the lockdown. The ?15 billion industry will soon receive a major boost, as 60% of families are looking forward to plan a stay at an accessible break centre, in the aftermath of the pandemic, a new study by Calvert Lakes suggests
At least 95% of the people will be booking centres in the UK, not abroad, in the later part of the year.
Calvert Lakes interviewed hundreds of disabled holidaymakers, their carers, and family members, about their views on the accessible tourism market, especially during COVID-19 pandemic. The findings suggest 72% people believe that the physical health of disabled people has been adversely affected by the lockdown, while 84% believe that their mental health suffered because of self-isolation.
Justin Farnan, business manager at Calvert Lakes said: "This research is a huge boost for the UK's accessible tourism market, as it indicates a strong desire among people, to book a break over the coming months. There are very obvious and understandable concerns in the disabled community over COVID-19 considerations. But the need to address the physical and mental repercussions of the lockdown is driving demand. It is clear that the consumer confidence is returning."
There are still 40% people, who are wary of travelling right at this point, as they are taking additional shielding measures due to their underlying health issues. As many as 21% said they will not book a residential activity break, until all restrictions, including safety measures are lifted; while 6% said they will not book a vacation stay for those in their care, until there is a COVID-19 vaccine.
The safety measures adopted on any site are important for accessible travel, as 50% of respondents would prefer that the housekeeping staff do not enter their bedrooms, while 52% expect contact-free check in and perspex screens at reception. A least 35% people expect the staff to wear face masks.od
In March 2020, the trustees and senior staff implemented a survival plan to ensure that the organisation can spring back to life after the lockdown. They are now making plans to reopen towards the end of the summer.
"We know the importance of this centre for our visitors and are making plans on how to deliver our operations, while accommodating the new rules we are anticipating. This may involve some changes to the activities we offer, layout of the accommodation and dining areas, and opening the centre for those, who are looking for somewhere safe and secure to recuperate," continued Justin.
Helen Hunt, who organises the Cumbria and Lancashire Rotary Club visit to the centre explains: "Our annual trip to Calvert Lakes normally takes place in April, but this year it had to be delayed. We bring up to 50 adults with a range of disabilities, because we see the amazing impact it has on their wellbeing and sense of self. For many this week, long residential is the highlight of their year. The lockdown and isolation of the last two months has had a bigger impact on those with disabilities. We are really worried about how this will affect their longer-term physical and mental health and it is our plan to help them come to the centre as soon as possible."
Natalie Parr, a regular visitor at Calvert Lakes says: "I was a very fit, able bodied and active teenager. When I was 25, I had Guillian Barre syndrome, which attacked my nervous system and left me paralysed from the chest down, with severe and complex medical problems. Life changed hugely for me and my family, as I needed 24-hour care and everything adapted. I didn't have much confidence in who I was, but I can honestly say that it gave me the real Nat back. I was able to participate in life and laughed more than ever. I feel Calvert played a huge part in keeping me feeling involved with the rest of the world, and I always get excited when I know I am going back to Calvert. I can be put into a harness and I am free and able again."
Situated in the centre of the Northern Lakes, near Keswick, Calvert Lakes has been delivering challenging outdoor adventure for people with disabilities since 1978. In 2019, Calvert was named as Cumbria's best Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Destination and is currently being judged by Visit England for a national award in the same category.
