booklet containing information on many types of

Transcription

HOLIDAYS
Updated July 2012
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OAKLEIGH SCHOOL UNDERSTANDS THAT FINDING HOLIDAY PROVISIONS
THAT MEET THE NEEDS OF OUR FAMILIES CAN SOMETIMES BE A
FRUSTRATING AND FRUITLESS PROCESS.
For some families, physical access issues may be a priority, with hoists to
swimming pools, baths, beds, etc of great importance.
For others, a safe and enclosed place for a child to play, with a clearly structured
environment, is essential.
Some people children may need oxygen on site, whilst others may appreciate
accommodation which caters for a child with a visual disability.
We have compiled this booklet containing information on many types of holiday
accommodation, both catered and self-catering, for varying budgets, both in this
country and abroad.
There is also a section containing information on organisations which provide
staffed holidays for children with disabilities.
We have also included some suggestions of organisations which may be able to
help with funding and holiday insurance plus a section about flying.
It not an exhaustive list, but we hope that, together, it all provides a useful starting
point and that the different needs of all of our families are met by at least some of
these suggestions.
WE CANNOT RECOMMEND OR ENDORSE ANY SPECIFIC HOTELS OR
ACCOMMODATION AS WE HAVE NEVER VISITED ANY OF THEM
2..but all contact details and links are provided for you to explore. This is the
updated version of the original booklet prepared a few years ago – we have tried to
check that everything appearing here is still available, but the nature of the industry
means that accommodation can sometimes become unavailable. It’s always worth
a phone call!
WE HOPE THAT YOU WILL FIND IT USEFUL.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
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CONTENTS
A) SELF-CATERING IN GREAT BRITAIN
Chalets, caravans, guest houses, etc
Three Farm-based holidays
Three Boat-based holidays
B) CATERED/HOTELS IN GREAT BRITAIN
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4
10
12
18
C) IN EUROPE
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Jersey
Majorca
Spain
France
Cyprus
Greece
Italy
Malta
Portugal
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39
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40
41
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D) FURTHER AFIELD
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E) HOLIDAY CENTRES
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F) POSSIBLE FUNDING STREAMS FOR HELP
WITH FINANCE AND INSURANCE
CONSIDERATIONS
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G) USEFUL ORGANISATIONS
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H) SOME POINTS ABOUT FLYING
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A website which you may find helpful is http://www.disabledaccessholidays.com/
It provides enormous amounts of information and support, both in terms of appropriate
accommodation around the world, and also the practicalities involved. They also have a
free brochure – call 0845 257 0113
Another useful website is www.goodaccessguide.co.uk which has an extensive list of
disabled-friendly cottages, apartments & chalets and suitable holidays abroad.
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A) SELF-CATERING IN GREAT BRITAIN
Chalets, caravans, guest houses, etc
THE HARRIET DAVIS SEASIDE TRUST HOUSES http://www.harriet-davis-trust.org.uk/
01834 845 197
The Trust provides four self-catering holiday houses in Pembrokeshire, UK for families with
disabled children. Three houses are in the Tenby area and are fully adapted and equipped for
physically disabled children and the fourth, in Narberth, has been adapted for children with autism
and other learning difficulties. All the houses have convenient parking and are available all year.
Caerwen, (particularly appropriate for children with autism)
Pembrokeshire
This house has been specially adapted and equipped to cater for families with children with
autism and other learning disabilities.
Caerwen is situated on the outskirts of Narberth which is a small country town well equipped with
shops and is a centre for holidaymaking. Pembrokeshire's lovely beaches are within easy reach
as are many of the tourist attractions.
The accommodation at Caerwen consists of a large lounge with dining area, fully equipped
kitchen, utility room, breakfast room and soft playroom on the ground floor. There are four
bedrooms and a family bathroom. The parents' bedroom has an en-suite with bath and shower
also there is a spare bed and cot in the room. A second double bedroom has twin beds and there
are two single rooms one of which is a `special' bedroom. All internal doors and the kitchen
cupboards have locks for extra safety.
The rear garden has been fenced and gated to provide a secure and safe area. There are no
immediate neighbours.
The maximum number permitted at Caerwen is six plus a baby.
Whilst every effort has been made to provide a safe and secure environment in the house and
garden the holiday house may not be suitable for all children. The Trust has taken advice from
families and believes that all reasonable measures have been provided to enable families to enjoy
holidays together.
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All the houses are centrally heated, the cost of which is included in the rental as is all the bed
linen. The Family Helpers and Housekeepers are available to families in case of problems or
emergencies.
Jesse Road, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, SA67 7DP
(Owned by the Harriet Davis Seaside Trust http://www.harriet-davis-trust.brecon.co.uk/index.htm)
01834 845 197
'The Wheelabout'
Pembrokeshire
A holiday house for families with physically disabled children purpose and equipped built on the
site of the old Wheelabout cottage on the Ridgeway, Penally, Tenby, Pembrokeshire.
The project to provide the Trust's third property was made possible through a major grant from the
Community Fund, (Lottery money making a difference) together with grants from Charitable
Trusts, donations from many organisations and fund raising activities.The house stands in its own
grounds on the Ridgeway just outside Tenby with magnificent views over the Gower and Caldey
Island. The garden has been landscaped for wheelchair use and there is plenty of room for
children to play.
The ground floor accommodation includes a large kitchen/dining room with cooker, microwave,
refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher and food processor. One of the working units in the kitchen is
adjustable for height. The utility room contains a washing machine and dryer. At this level also is
the family bathroom, a wheel in shower room and two bedrooms, one with two single beds and
bunkbeds, the other with two single beds. A small indoor heated swimming pool is also available;
it has a hoist for pool entry and a changing room with an adjustable changing table.
The wheelchair lift gives access to the first floor where there is a large lounge with a balcony. A
television, video player and special adjustable armchair are provided. The 'special bedroom and
bathroom' which contain an overhead hoist, Kingcraft hydraulic bath, adjustable sink, hydraulic
bed and carer's bed, are next to the parents' bedroom which has a double bed and en-suite
shower room. Other equipment available includes floor sitters, a mobile hoist, shower/ toiletting
chairs, table/easel, spider chair and Tripp Trapp chair and high chair.
Please note, there are three mobile phone masts near to the Wheelabout
General Information
emergencies. The Ridgeway, Penally, Tenby, Pembrokeshire SA70 8DL.
(Owned by the Harriet Davies Seaside Trust http://www.harriet-davis-trust.org.uk/
01834 845 197
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Harriet’s House
Pembrokeshire,
'Harriet's House' is situated overlooking Tenby Harbour, it is within a few minutes walk of the
beaches and Tenby High Street. The property has been renovated, furnished and equipped to a
high standard to meet the needs of families with disabled children who wish to take seaside
holidays together.
The accommodation, which is level throughout, comprises; entrance hall, large lounge/dining
room the furnishings of which include a specialist adjustable armchair. The kitchen, off the lounge,
is fully equipped with cooker, fridge/freezer, dish washer, microwave and food processor. A
washer/ dryer is also available.
There are three bedrooms, one with a double bed with room for a cot supplied if required, the
second has one 3ft single bed and two 3ft bunks. The third bedroom has one 3ft bed and an
hydraulic bed, fully adjustable and has cot sides. Leading from this bedroom is a bathroom
equipped with a Kingcraft rise and fall bath, a sink which is adjustable, showering facilities,
manual hoist, shower chair and a range of toiletting aids. Families needing to use the hoist are
asked to bring their own toilet sling. There is a second bathroom and a cloakroom. A high chair is
also available as are floor sitters, a Jenx table/easel, and a portable feeding chair.
The maximum number allowed in 'Harriet's House' is SEVEN, plus a baby, and the Trust reserves
the right to cancel the booking if it is exceeded.
General Information
emergencies.
Castle Square, Tenby, Pembrokeshire,SA70 7BW
01834 845 197
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Giltar House
Pembrokeshire
Giltar View is situated in Southcliffe Street, Tenby a few minutes walk from The Esplanade
overlooking South Beach, the shops and the walled old Town. The property has also been
renovated, furnished and equipped to a high standard.
The accommodation is on three floors with a wheel-chair platform lift from the ground floor to the
special bedroom and bathroom. The entrance is ramped and leads to the living room (the
furnishings of which include a Spa Controller Chair), the kitchen and dining room. The kitchen is
equipped with a cooker, fridge and freezer, dish-washer, microwave and food processor. There is
also a washing machine and tumble dryer.
On the first floor the Special Bedroom has a hydraulic with cot sides and a 3ft single bed, the
Special Bathroom is equipped with a Kingcraft rise and fall bath, an adjustable sink and showering
facilities. Also available are a hoist and a range of shower/toiletting chairs. Families needing to
use the hoist are asked to bring their own toilet sling. Also on this floor there is a double bedroom
and bathroom. There is a further double bedroom and two single bedrooms on the second floor.
A high chair is available as are floor sitters, a Jenx table/easel, a Jenx Spider Chair and a Tripp
Trapp chair.
The maximum number allowed in 'Giltar View' is EIGHT, plus a baby, and the Trust reserves the
right to cancel the booking if it is exceeded.
Incontinence sheets and aids are not supplied.
Giltar View has been provided with the support of the National Lottery Charities Board Wales.
General Information
emergencies.
Southcliffe Street, Tenby, Pembrokeshire SA70 7EA
01834 845 197
----****----
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Helsey House Cottages, Skegness, Lincolnshire (particularly appropriate for children with
autism)
We have two self catering holiday cottages on the North East Lincolnshire coast. As parents of
two autistic boys and approved foster carers we know how difficult it can be for special needs
families to have a relaxing holiday. The cottages are situated in the private grounds of our home.
Each cottage is fully equipped for self catering and has a double bedded and a twin bedded room.
We are able to put bunks into the twin room in The Dairy to sleep five. A cot is also available.
We now have a small pets’ corner of rabbits, guinea pigs and rescued battery hens, providing
beautiful fresh eggs.
Please ring to discuss any special requirements or concerns. A ‘welcome pack’ of groceries or
special dietary needs can be provided. If night time enuresis is a problem please let us know so
that we can provide suitable bedding protection. We would also consider offering a baby-sitting
service for families to enable parents to have an evening out.
Mark and Elizabeth Elvidge, Helsey House Cottages, Helsey House, Helsey, Near Hogsthorpe,
Skegness, Lincolnshire, PE24 5PE; tel: 01754 872927, 07740 909765;
email: [email protected]
BREAK
BREAK provides supported holidays and respite care provision.
Sarah Harris, Guest Bookings Administrator, BREAK, Davison House, Montague Road,
Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8WN; tel: 01263 822161; fax: 01263 822181;
email: [email protected]; website: www.break-charity.org
Golden Bay Holiday Village, (Break)
Bideford Bay, Devon
We have two purpose built self-catering chalets at the Golden Bay Holiday Village,
overlooking the beautiful Bideford Bay on the north Devon coast. There is wheelchair-friendly
access from the holiday village leading directly down to two miles of wonderful golden sandy
beach - no roads to cross or traffic to avoid.
Our self catering chalets provide an opportunity to enjoy a low cost traditional ‘bucket and
spade' holiday and are ideal bases from which to explore this delightful region.
The chalets are fully furnished to a high standard. Kitchens are well-equipped and fitted with
microwave, electric oven/hob and fridge freezer. Lounge areas have comfortable seating and
television, while bathrooms are fully fitted with bath, WC and shower unit over the bath.
You are welcome to book a holiday if you;
• have a child with a disability or other special need
• are a parent or carer with a disability or other special need
• are on a low income
In order for this service to be available to those families who are most in need, we request that
you supply a letter of recommendation from your GP, Social Worker, health care professional
or other appropriate agency when applying. BREAK - Head Office, Davison House, 1
Montague Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8WN
Tel: 01263 822161 email: [email protected] www.break-charity.org/go/westward_ho
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Bark Cottage
Bark Cottage is located within the Lake District National Park, 3 miles south of Coniston Water,
and set in a quiet, secluded, small cluster of houses 100 metres off the main road. The cottage is
a self-contained two-bedroom ground floor apartment, in an old Lakeland stone barn. It has
ramped access, and is fully wheelchair accessible throughout. It has 2 bathrooms, one with
wheel-in shower, side access toilet and accessible sink. Both bedrooms have wheelchair space
along the beds. They have two doubles and one single bed, plus a double futon sofa-bed in the
lounge. The apartment will sleep up to 6 adults. One bed will accommodate a portable hoist.
Cone raisers and a child’s cot are available. The lounge diner has beamed ceilings and solid fuel
stove. Heating is by storage heaters. Electricity, bed linen and towels included. ETC Grading 3
stars. £200 to £380 weekly. Short breaks available.
Jenny Tancock, Bark Cottage, Tannery Barn, The Meadows, Lowick Green, Cumbria, LA12 8DX;
tel: 01229 885416; email: [email protected];
website: www.tannerybarn.freeserve.co.uk
Borders Asperger and Autism Group Support (BAAGS)
The Borders Asperger and Autism Group Support (BAAGS) has purchased a luxury eight-berth
caravan, situated at Berwick Holiday Park, which is available to hire for short breaks, holidays and
respite by people with autism and their families.
For more information, call 01896 668 961, email [email protected] or write to: 1 Cotgreen
Road, Tweedbank, Galashiels TD1 3SG.
Kate McGlynn Holiday Home, Kilmartin, by Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8QF
Accommodation consists of an open plan lounge/dining area with adjacent kitchen (fitted with
electric cooker, microwave oven, fridge and washer/dryer). The lounge has 2 armchairs, 1 recliner
armchair and a sofa bed. There is a colour television with VCR/DVD and a radio with tape/CD
facilities.
There are 3 bedrooms (1 double, 1 twin with electric care bed and a Z bed, 1 single with pull out
guest bed). A powered mobile “Oxford mini hoist” is supplied; guests need to provide their own
slings and towels.
The shower room is fitted with a wheel-in shower chair and grab rails. There is a full house
electric heating via a £1 coin meter. Pets other than guide dogs and smoking inside the house are
not permitted.
We are located ½ miles from Kilmartin, Argyll. A full range of services can also be found in
Lochgilphead 8 miles south and Oban 30 miles to the north.
Booking Administrator, c/o Dochas Centre, 50 Campbell Street, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8JU
Telephone 0776 987 3789
email [email protected]
website www.katemcglynn-holidayhome.co.uk
Kingfisher Barn
Oxfordshire
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Provides self-catering accommodation. There are 4 cottages that sleep between 2-6 people
and 2 large lodges that sleep 8-10 people each. All but two are wheelchair accessible. There is
also a swimming pool with hoist on site. There are also 10 bed and breakfast rooms some with
wheelchair access. The lodges are 4 star standard and cottages 3 star. Perfect for group
holidays, reunions, a base for touring Oxfordshire or just to relax and get away from it all. Prices
range from £319 to £1217 per week. Use of pool is included, you are entitled to an hour per day
and you get the pool to yourself. Hoists, slings, cot sides and shower chairs available free of
charge.
Sarah Jefferies, Manager, Kingfisher Barn Ltd, Rye Farm, Culham, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 3NN;
tel: 01235 537538; fax: 01235 537538; email: [email protected]; website:
www.kingfisherbarn.com
Scout Holiday Homes Trust
The Trust offers holidays for any families with special needs or low income in self-catering luxury
caravans and chalets on commercial holiday parks including Haven, British Holidays and
Hoburne. The units cost below the market rate and include gas/electricity and club membership.
The units sleep up to 6 people and are suitable for wheelchair users with some mobility. There
are 12 sites around England and Wales (Berwick on Tweed, Great Yarmouth, Clacton, Poole,
Exmouth, Paignton, St Austell, Prestatyn, Skipsea, New Milton, Kidwelly, Burnham on Sea)
offering 18 units and these are available from Easter to October. No Scouting connection is
necessary.
Mrs Lynda Peters, The Trust Administrator, Scout Holiday Homes Trust, Gilwell Park, Chingford,
London E4 7QW; tel: 020 8433 7100/7290; fax: 020 8433 7184; email:
[email protected]; website: www.scoutbase.org.uk/hq/holhomes
3 FARM_BASED HOLIDAYS (for Catered farm holidays, see next section)
South Tofrey Farm, Golant, Fowey – Honeypin Cottage
At South Torfrey there’s no need to travel far for entertainment, with so much on your doorstep.On
the farm there is plenty of space for children to let off steam: an outside playground, trampoline,
indoor playroom with pool and table football, and our indoor ‘endless’ swimming pool. Sit back
and relax while the children have fun. We offer a swimming pool and sauna on site (an ‘endless
pool’ with a current) which can be booked out for a family’s sole use with no worry about
disruption (no extra charge). Also games room, trampoline and small animals all on offer.
HONEYPIN COTTAGE is on a single level, and has been converted throughout with accessibility
in mind. It is thoughtfully furnished and designed to appeal to all our guests. It’s wide door
openings and level wooden floor offers easy wheelchair manoeuvrability, plus better accessibility
for visitors who may need extra space and support getting around. Both bedrooms have en-suite
wet-floor showers with support rails. A fully adjustable electric bed with optional side rails is set up
in the smaller bedroom, whilst in the living room there is an electric reclining easy chair. A self
propelled shower chair is available, as well as a light weight collapsible wheel chair for day trips.
From the enclosed garden-patio a wide level path links Honeypin to the games room, indoor
swimming pool and sauna. The pool is partly above ground allowing entry from a seated position,
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and hand rails around the pool side are provided for guests who need a little extra support
when leaving the water. A hydraulic seat lift for assisted access in and out of the pool is on hand if
required, doubling as a shower chair for use around the pool and shower area.
Simon & Debbie Andrews, South Tofrey Farm, Golant, Fowey, PL23 1LA; tel: 01726 833126;
website: www.southtorfreyfarm.com
Blagdon Farm Country Holidays,
Devon
Blagdon Farm was designed from the outset to be disabled friendly especially where accessibility
is a priority and has succeeded having been awarded an accessibility grading on all cottages of
either 1 or 2 - the highest achievable. The second objective was to create this within luxurious
environment. This too has succeeded, and Blagdon Farm has been awarded either a 4 or 5 star
by the ETC on all its cottages.
In addition to being recommended by many specialist organisations as a truly accessible holiday
complex, we have also been awarded an Excellence Award under the Tourism for All category in
recognition of our excellence in providing Holidays for ALL.
Suitable for individuals, couples, groups or families where mobility may be an issue. All the
cottages are adjoining, single storey and have all been designed to be fully wheelchair friendly
with extra-wide doorways, wheel-in showers, with shower chairs, accessible light switches and
easy to use kitchens with a lowered preparation area. They have large balconies with wide patio
doors enabling guests to sit outside and enjoy the views over the lake and the forests and fields
beyond. Wagtail cottage has been designed with a special low kitchen enabling the independent
wheelchair user to do their own food preparation. There are no steps and each cottage has its
own adjacent level parking space. The grounds include a hard-surfaced nature trail of nearly a
mile in length which takes in the lake as well as passing through some open fields and our
orchard. These are wheelchair accessible and there are also plenty of seats around to rest on.
We maintain a comprehensive range of equipment including powered wheelchairs, electric
scooters, hoists, monkey poles, shower chairs, bed rails and numerous other aids.
Ashwater, Beaworthy, Devon. EX21 5DF. 01409 211 509 www.blagdon-farm.co.uk
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Smallicombe Farm Devon
£20-£25 ensuite B&B per night (optional evening meal by arrangement) and £125-£525 selfcatering per week, depending on season and size of accommodation. Short off-season breaks
from £75. Open all year. The farm is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, midway
between Honiton and Colyton and a few miles from the coast (own transport essential). The
ground floor
B&B accommodation is in the farmhouse (Garden Suite) and the self-catering units (Cider Barrel
& The Granary) are adjacent. Both the catered and self-catering accommodation is specially
adapted and able-bodied people accompanying disabled guest(s) can also be accommodated. It
is advisable to check that the facilities are suitable for all your needs and requirements before
making a booking. There is a small, wheelchair accessible, licensed restaurant in the farmhouse
which caters for B&B and self-catering guests. The farm has a wide variety of animals, large
garden with children's play area, accessible games room, and footpath maps are available.
Babysitting by arrangement. Guide dogs accepted. Groups welcome in self-catering
accommodation (maximum 20 people). The following grading have been awarded by the English
Tourism Council:
GARDEN SUITE: 4 DIAMONDS & CATEGORY 3 ACCESSIBLE GRADING
CIDER BARREL: 4 STARS & CATEGORY 1 ACCESSIBLE GRADING
THE GRANARY: 4 STARS & CATEGORY 2 ACCESSIBLE GRADING
ALSO ENGLAND FOR EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR DISABLED FACILITIES; HOLIDAY CARE
'BEST SELF-CATERING ACCOMMODATION 1996'; MEMBER OF THE FARM HOLIDAY
BUREAU.
Special aids or equipment available: Wheel-in showers; commodes; raised toilet seats; bed
blocks; cots; highchairs. Other equipment can be hired from Exeter Industrial Services (tel: 01392
438329) and arrangements can be made for delivery/collection to/from the farm).
Northleigh COLYTON Devon EX24 6BU
Tel: 01404 831310 Fax: 01404 831431
Internet: www.smallicombe.com E-Mail: [email protected]
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3 BOAT_BASED HOLIDAYS
The Bruce Trust
The Bruce Trust provides holidays for disabled people on its four specially designed, purposebuilt, wide beam canal boats. Two are 12 berth, one 10 berth and one 6 berth. They are used by
families with special needs or groups of people with disabilities, together with their carers. On a
self-steer basis. Fitted out to a high standard including wheelchair lifts, ramps, specially designed
shower and toilet areas and heating. Training course provided.
Danese Rudd, Trust Administration, The Bruce Trust, P.O. Box 21, Hungerford, Berkshire, RG17
9YY; tel: 01672 515498; fax: 01672 516441; email: [email protected]; website:
www.brucetrust.org.uk
Nancy Oldfield Trust
The Trust offers water activities – sailing, canoeing, fishing, motor boating and bird watching – to
any one with a disability or who is disadvantaged. We have a disabled-friendly bungalow which
sleeps ten people, and welcome day visitors too. We operate mostly on Barton Broad where we
have a floating pontoon with shelter, a toilet and cooking facilities. More details on our website or
send for brochure.
Our accommodation comprises 10 berths ashore and 6 berths afloat, all accommodation is selfcatering.
Our land based accommodation has been recently modernised, is wheelchair accessible
throughout and includes: large sitting/lecture room, 10 berths (bunk beds and single beds),
modernised spacious kitchen and dining room, modernised toilet and shower facilities for
disabled people, facilities for carers
One cruiser yacht and a 38 ft motor cruiser (Nancy Bee), can provide a maximum of 6 berths
afloat which are ideal for exploration of the Norfolk Broads and include cooking facilities, toilet
facilities, wheelchair access, hoists and lifts
Robin Slatter, Centre Manager, Nancy Oldfield Trust, Irstead Road, Norwich, NR12 8BJ; tel:
01692 630572; email: [email protected]; website: www.nancyoldfield.org.uk
Canal Boat Project is a charity that hires purpose built and adapted wide-beam accessible canal
boats for holidays, short breaks and day trips to families, groups and individuals with physical,
sensory and learning difficulties and impairments as well as community groups. Central heating
allows the boats to be available all year. The boats are moored on the river Stort in Harlow.
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address: The Canal Boat Project, Lock View, Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2QS
telephone: 01279 424444
website: www.canalboat.org.uk
The Ty Glyn Davis Trust
Wales
The Centre is a single storey building which can accommodate 16 people in 9 bedrooms. There is
a purpose built bathroom with powered shower, changing bench and hoist. The Centre is set
among woodlands on the banks of the river Aeron, just outside the harbour town of Aberaeron.
Sandy beaches where seals and dolphins can be watched are a short drive along the coast road.
Around the Centre are lots of wildlife, and a woodland walk which leads to a walled garden, to
which visitors have unlimited access. There is also an adventure playground in the garden. The
Centre may be used for the benefit of children and young people with disabilities by groups,
schools and families with disabled members or others with special needs and their carers. It can
also be used by relevant organisations for training and related purposes and by adults out of
season.
Louise Hutchings, Centre Organiser, The Ty Glyn Davis Trust, Hafod, Llanarth, Ceredigion, SA47
0QB; tel: 01545
580708; email: [email protected]; website: www.tyglyndavistrust.co.uk
Churchtown Outdoor Adventure Centre
Churchtown provides outdoor, environmental and adventurous holidays accessible to everyone,
regardless of degree of special need. The Centre is well equipped with an indoor swimming pool,
farm, nature reserve and grounds. Sailing and canoeing takes place on the nearby River Fowey
and the Centre is only five miles from the coast. Help is available with care requirements and a
care team member is on call on site throughout the night. The Centre has en-suite bedrooms and
a large activity room. The Centre also has 2 self-catering, fully accessible lodges. Each is capable
of sleeping 6 people. There is an en-suite bathroom with ceiling hoist, a second bathroom, 3 twin
bedrooms and a large open plan living area and kitchen.
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Gabbie Robinson, Centre Manager, Churchtown Outdoor Adventure Centre, Lanlivery, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30
5BT; tel: 01208 872148; fax: 01208 873377; website: www.cornwall-online.co.uk/churchtown-activity-
centre/
LIVABILITY HOLIDAY HOMES (previously John Grooms)
www.livability.org.uk/holidays
Telephone for full brochure and booking 08456 58 44 78
1) Anchor House, Weymouth
•
•
•
•
•
mobile hoist
wheel-in shower
self-propelled shower/commode chair
lift to upper floor
electric profiling bed
Weymouth, with its Georgian seafront houses overlooking an award-winning sandy beach, is in a
designated Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This delightful seaside town has everything to
make a truly enjoyable holiday with lots to see and do. Weymouth has made great efforts to
provide first-class facilities for disabled people. The entire town centre is wheelchair friendly, with
ramps to the beach and free beach wheelchair attachments available in the summer season.
There is also a Land Train during the summer season with ramp access to the rear carriage.
2) Beach Lodge, Felpham
•
•
•
•
•
ceiling track hoist in main bedroom
lift (3ft 6 x 3ft 6)
wheel-in shower and separate bathroom
shower/commode chair
Beach Lodge offers marvellous sea-views from all front rooms.This large adapted property for
wheelchair users suits larger parties of up to 9. The house has three twin rooms, one double and
one single, bed linen is not included. Access to this split-level property is via a lift.Sumner Village,
Felpham offers the best of both worlds. You will be situated on a private estate overlooking the
sea in a sleepy Sussex seaside village and at the same time right next door to the famous resort
of Bognor Regis
3) Farrell House, Bognor Regis
•
•
•
•
electric ceiling hoists & mobile hoist
wheel-in shower
self-propelled shower chair
It is an adapted house that sleeps up to eight people with a twin and a single room downstairs, a
triple room and a twin room upstairs. If you are a sun worshipper then head for Bognor Regis.
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This genteel seaside resort with its Victorian ancestry claims to soak up more sun than
anywhere else in the country. If you fancy some shopping, the centre is fully pedestrianised with
level terrain throughout the town. As for fun, it offers a wide range of typical seaside attractions
from the pier and seafront promenade to its popular theatre and museum. You'll find it well-served
with shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs. The beautiful beaches have also won the EU Blue Flag
in recognition for their cleanliness.
4) Groomhill, Clacton-on-Sea
•
•
•
wheel-in shower
self-propelled shower/ commode chair
mobile hoist
Our adapted bungalow is set in a quiet part of town and is an ideal base from which to explore this
part of Essex. Groomhill can sleep up to seven with three twin bedrooms and a z-bed. The
ramped doorways allow easy access through both the front and via the back door into the garden.
Parking is available on the driveway. Clacton is the capital of the Essex Sunshine Coast and
boasts a great variety of sight-seeing oportunities including the world's largest Victorian pier,
seven miles of famous sandy beaches and Seaquarium
5) Broomhill, Wroxham, Norfolk Broads
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
two apartments; each sleeps eight
wheel-in shower and separate bathroom
mobile hoist
wheelchair lift (max 160kg)
adapted kitchen
The tranquil lakes and waterways of the Norfolk Broads have a very special appeal. There’s an
abundance of wildlife on the salt marshes, fens and nature reserves, and a beautiful landscape
dotted with windmills. We offer two apartments at Broomhill, a modern building with communal
gardens. Each property sleeps eight , arranged as a double room, a twin-bedded room, one room
with bunk beds, and a sofa bed.
The spacious lounges are well-furnished, with colour TV, video player and hi-fi. Each flat is
equipped with oven, fridge, microwave and washing machine, and adaptable work surfaces. Both
apartments have central heating, and share a tumble dryer. You’ll be staying in the peaceful
village of Hoverton, less than ten miles from the Norfolk coasts unspoilt beaches, seaside villages
and quaint pubs. Should you want a change of tempo, the lively resort of Great Yarmouth is within
easy reach. Also nearby is Cromer, a delightful Victorian resort famous for its delicious crab.
6) Nationwide Bungalow, Ambleside
•
•
•
•
wheel-in shower
mobile hoist
This comfortable and adapted bungalow sleeps up to seven people and has a beautiful secluded
garden which is accessible from the lounge and the driveway.
Nationwide offers a twin room, two single rooms, a double sofa bed and a z-bed, with all bed linen
supplied. You'll be in the pretty town of Ambleside, full of speciality shops, busy restaurants and
pubs humming with good-natured conversation.
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It is an excellent base for touring the Lake District and discovering many of the fine attractions,
including boat trips on the lake, the Forest of the Lakes, Lakeland Sheep and Wool Centre.
7) Seagulls, Selsey Bill
•
•
•
•
electric ceiling hoists
wheel-in shower
Seagulls offers magnificent views. The bungalow is right on the Coastal Walk, which runs past the
entrance to the drive. It sleeps six in three twin bedrooms. Selsey is a popular summer holiday
spot placed conveniently on a peninsular halfway between Bognor Regis and Havant. It offers
miles of sand and shingle beaches with excellent bathing opportunities along the coastline. It has
numerous cafes, bars and shops and in the summer months locals and visitors alike are
entertained by a variety of fetes, carnivals and shows. The town also has its own fishing fleet and
you'll often find local stalls selling delicious freshly caught produce.
8) Tamarisk, Bracklesham Bay
•
•
•
•
electric and mobile hoist
wheel-in shower
It can sleep up to six people in two twin bedrooms, one of which is en suite, a single room and Zbed. Bed linen is provided. Bracklesham Bay provides fabulous views across the Solent towards
the Isle of Wight and is located only six miles south of historic Chichester. The coastline is full of
isolated havens and beauty spots and is the ideal setting for a relaxing holiday.
9) Villa Ryall, Worle near Weston Super Mare
•
Sleeps up to eight
•
Wheel-in shower
•
Self propelled shower/commode chair
•
Electric profiling beds
•
Electric mobile hoist
Villa Ryall is just three miles from Weston Super Mare with its Grand Pier, seaside amusement
park, miles of sandy beach, museums and other attractions. Villa Ryall is an attractive house set
in its own garden close to amenities. The property has a large driveway with ample room for
parking. There is ramped access to the side of the house and to the rear onto the extensive sunterrace. Villa Ryall has four bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people. On the ground floor there
are twin bedrooms each with electric height adjustable profiling beds accessible for wheelchair
users. On the dormer style first floor there is a twin and a single bedroom with a z-bed. There are
two bathrooms in Villa Ryal. The one on the ground floor is a wheel in shower room equipped with
a mobile shower chair come commode. The upstairs bathroom has a bath.
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B) CATERED ACCOMMODATION / HOTELS IN GREAT BRITAIN
Lonsdale Court Hotel
Cliftonville
Child reductions available. Open all year. Hotel situated close to sea and shops, 500 yards from
the coach stop and one mile from the rail station. Ramped side entrance is the most accessible.
Upper floor bedrooms, reached via a lift, with ensuite bathroom, satellite TV, tea/coffee making
facilities, hospitality tray and direct dial telephone. Indoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna and
solarium. Multipurpose sports and leisure hall. Ballroom with evening entertainment. Two lounge
bars, restaurant and tea and coffee house. Baby listening service available. Member of staff able
to use sign language. Welcomes families with a disabled child (one member of staff is a
wheelchair user herself) and happy to accommodate groups (maximum 20 people). Some
members of staff able to use sign language.
ENGLISH TOURISM COUNCIL 2 STAR APPROVED: CATEGORY 3 ACCESSIBLE GRADING.
Special aids or equipment available: raised toilet seats; cots; highchairs.
Suitable for children requiring Oxygen (child with own supply),
51-61 Norfolk Road Cliftonville MARGATE Kent CT9 2HX
Tel: 01843 221053 Fax: 01843 299993
www.courthotels.com E-Mail: [email protected]
Bond Hotel Blackpool
Early and late season specials. Open all year, except January. Hotel designed for disabled guests
and situated two minutes from the promenade, Pleasure Beach and the Sandcastle Leisure
Complex. Blackpool Lido swimming pool, equipped for disabled people is also nearby. The coach
station is one mile away, the rail station two miles. 50 bedrooms, including ten large ground floor
rooms. Double and family rooms available. All rooms are ensuite with either bath or shower and
there is also a bathroom on the first floor which is equipped with a bath hoist and a specially
equipped shower room on the second floor. Emergency call system linking all main hotel rooms to
Reception. Listening Devices available. Choice of types of bed from Single to Double or Electric
Raiser beds available in some premier Bedrooms. Two wheelchair accessible lifts serve all floors.
Each room is individually heated, in addition to central heating, and have remote control TV,
emergency call button and tea/coffee making facilities. Spacious bar with live entertainment and
bingo in high season. Sunroof. Some members of staff able to use sign language.
HIGHLY COMMENDED IN HOLIDAY CARE AWARDS 1993. ENGLISH TOURISM COUNCIL
CATEGORY 1 ACCESSIBLE GRADING. WINNERS OF QUEEN ELIZABETH EASE AWARD
2000.
Special aids or equipment available: Manual bed & bath hoists; Arjo special bath; wheel-in
shower; commodes; monkey poles; walking aids; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cots; highchairs.
120 Bond Street South Shore BLACKPOOL Lancashire FY4 1HG
Tel: 01253 341218 Fax: 01253 349452 www.bondhotel.co.uk E-Mail:
[email protected]
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East Dene Centre, Isle of Wight (particularly appropriate for children with autism)
The East Dene Centre in Bonchurch, on the Isle of Wight, is a spectacular mansion house set in a
wonderful location overlooking the sea. The grounds are particularly child friendly offering
freedom and space to play safely. The Centre is tucked away in the beautiful village of
Bonchurch. It has a clear boundary and is away from roadways. We have a variety of sizes of
Family Rooms all with wash basins and some with their own shower. We fully understand the
importance of creating the right atmosphere for enjoyable meal times and provide a wide choice
of meals - or the same thing every day if it helps! We have qualified instructors to teach a wide
range of outdoor activities and the heated swimming pool is always popular. Our Freedom Family
Weeks and Weekends are particularly designed to offer families living with autism and associated
behaviours, the opportunity to holiday together with support and without judgment. A flexible
programme goes with the flow and allows parents to network whilst their children are safely
engaged in activities including trampoline, swimming, zip wire, arts and crafts and much more. A
fully detailed brochure will soon be available.
Denea Wright, Managing Director, East Dene, Bonchurch, Isle of Wight, PO38 1RQ; tel: 01983
852374; fax: 01983 856007; email: [email protected];
website: www.allnatt.co.uk
The Breverton Hotel (particularly appropriate for children with physical disabilities)
St Annes, Lancs
Small family run establishment which is two streets from the beach in a quiet residential area of
town. Good disabled facilities, downstairs rooms, off road parking, large safe walled back garden
and no smoking. Special diets catered for. Our large Edwardian town house is a happy house,
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often filled with music and laughter. Staff are always on hand to help please ring and discuss
your needs. Every child matters and our aim is to make your holiday as happy as possible.
Anna Hoyle, The Breverton Hotel, 64 Orchard Road, St. Annes-on-Sea, FY8 1PJ; tel: 01253
726179; fax: 01253 714376; email: [email protected]
The St. Annes Hotel (appropriate for children with autism and children with physical disabilities)
Lancs
The St. Annes Hotel accommodates all guests in luxurious, exclusive, modern surroundings with
exceptionally comfortable bedrooms. All bedrooms have all been specifically designed and
adapted to ensure a wonderful, worry free holiday. Bedrooms have high/low beds and the ensuite shower rooms are level and fully accessible. Many of the bedrooms have ceiling tracking
hoists and adjoining doors – ideal if you are staying with a carer, friend or family member. The
hotels facilities include a deluxe hydrotherapy pool, sensory room, café, bar and lounge which
have stunning views over the promenade and beach. Apart from the obvious beauty of the town
and its surroundings, St. Annes on Sea and The Fylde Coast are renowned for the many
attractions in the area. We cater for all your holiday requirements whether they are full week
stays, weekend stays, short breaks or one of our fantastic “Themed” packages offered throughout
the year. Any member of The National Autistic Society (NAS) or who uses services run by the
NAS can apply for a 10 per cent discount on any bookings made with this hotel.
There is an indoor Hydrotherapy Pool and Play Room for our guests to use. The pool has a
manual hoist and stepped access with handrail and there is a changing room with a level access
shower and toilet. The Play Room offers creative therapy with interactive sounds to promote a
calming environment. You can book a private session for the pool and the Play Room at
Reception
Juliette Brunton, Reception Manager, The St. Annes Hotel, The Beach, 69-71 South Promenade,
St. Annes on Sea, Lancashire, FY8 1LZ; tel: 01253 713108; fax: 01253 726674; email:
[email protected]; website: www.st-annes-hotel.com
CALVERT TRUST KIELDER
Northumberland
Holiday and activity centre designed for people with disabilities. Self-catering, full board or short
break holidays available for families, individuals or groups. Unaccompanied disabled people must
be aged 18 or over. Situated on the shores of Kielder Water, Europe's largest man-made lake, in
21
the heart of the Northumbrian countryside. Offer a wide range of activities, all accessible for
wheelchair users, including sailing, cruising, canoeing, abseiling, climbing, archery, riding and
pony driving. Other facilities include an indoor swimming/hydrotherapy pool, games room and
licensed bar. Outings arranged using centre's own adapted transport. Guide dogs accepted.
Groups welcome. Contact the above number or address for a brochure. ENGLISH TOURISM
COUNCIL 4 STAR CLASSIFICATION FOR CHALETS AND CATEGORY 1 ACCESSIBLE
GRADING.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric bed hoists; adjustable beds; wheel-in showers; Closo-mat toilets; commodes; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cot sides; alarm call system in rooms;
cots; highchairs; staff may be available to push wheelchairs at certain times. Hydrotherapy
available.
Kielder Water HEXHAM Northumberland NE48 1BSTel: 01434 250232 Fax: 01434 250015
Internet: www.calvert-trust.org.uk E-Mail: [email protected]
Osborne Hotel
Ilfracombe Devon
Package deals can be arranged (Saturday to Friday) Open March to December, with Christmas
and New Year packages available. Family run hotel fully equipped to accommodate disabled
guests and carers. Conveniently situated on level road to main entertainment and shops. All
bedrooms ensuite with tea and coffee making facilities and colour TV (single rooms available some with supplement). Lift serving main bedrooms. Non-smoking dining room, baby listening in
all bedrooms. Sauna available. Large ballroom with regular entertainment. Pool table and darts.
Coach trips can be arranged at an extra charge. Pets accepted. Some members of staff able to
use sign language.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric bed hoists; commodes; wheelchairs; walking aids;
oxygen; raised toilet seats; cots; highchairs.
Wilder Road ILFRACOMBE Devon EX32 9AQ Tel: 01271 863641 Fax: as telephone
Well Farm (Catered)
Devon
Reductions for children. Open all year, except Christmas. Well Farm is a Grade II listed medieval
Dartmoor longhouse situated in the countryside, eight miles from Okehampton. Working familyrun dairy and pig farm with peacocks, pheasants, free-range poultry and resident dogs and cats in
the house. The ground floor annexe flat at the rear of the house is available as a family unit and
suitable for some disabled guests. It comprises two small bedrooms, bathroom and sitting room
with TV, video, fridge and fold up bed. The main house has two ensuite bedrooms, but they are
on the upper floor. Bedrooms have electric fire, shaver point, tea and coffee making facility and
electric underblanket in winter with partial central heating throughout. Guests eat with the owners
and are treated as part of the family. Visitors are welcome to watch the farming activities and may
bring their own dog by prior arrangement with the owner. Babysitting available by arrangement. A
car is advisable, but guests can be met at Exeter station (17 miles away) by arrangement. Riding,
reservoir fishing and golf are all within easy reach.
Special aid or equipment available: Commodes; monkey poles; raised toilet seats; cots;
highchairs.
Throwleigh OKEHAMPTON Devon EX20 2JQ Tel: 01647 231294 Fax: 01647 231561
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Thornley House
Teignmouth, Devon
Open all year, except November. Hotel situated on a hill (own transport an advantage), in coastal
resort, with views of the Teign estuary and coastline. The hotel offers adapted accommodation
and is located half a mile from the seafront, town, rail station and local coach station. Welcomes
accompanied disabled adults and families with a disabled child aged six and over. Ramped
entrance, ground floor facilities accessible for wheelchair users, including toilet with lateral
transfer. 11 double bedrooms (nine ensuite), including one on the ground floor. First floor
bedrooms accessible via lift, and stairlift to other landing serves six of the bedrooms. Limited
assistance is available during the day, ie cutting up food, tying shoelaces and pushing
wheelchairs etc. Outings arranged using hotel's adapted transport. Small garden with ramped
access to sun lounge. Aids for people who are deaf. Guide dogs accepted. Details of local
medical services available on request. Groups welcome (maximum 18 people).
Special aids or equipment available: Walk-in bath with water jets; wheel-in shower; commodes;
monkey poles; wheelchairs; walking aids; oxygen (if prescribed); raised toilet seats; bed blocks;
cots; highchairs.
Thornley Drive TEIGNMOUTH Devon TQ14 9JH Tel: 01626 775270 Fax: as telephone
Promenade Hotel
Minehead, Somerset
Open all year. Hotel owned by John Grooms and situated on the seafront, close to the harbour,
shops and Blenheim Gardens. There is also a Nature Trail for wheelchair users. Guests needing
personal care must be accompanied, or care can be organised through a local agency. Also
welcomes families with a child who has a physical or learning disability and groups (maximum 23
people). Each wheelchair accessible bedroom has an ensuite shower or bath, alarm call system,
colour TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift spacious enough to carry two wheelchair users.
Outings in hotel's adapted transport arranged. Garden. Guide dogs accepted.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric bed hoists; manual hoists (can be placed wherever
needed); Ripple specialist mattresses; wheel-in showers; Clos-o-mat toilets; commodes; monkey
poles; wheelchairs; walking aids; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cots; highchairs.
Esplanade MINEHEAD Somerset TA24 5QS Tel: 01643 702572 Fax: as telephone
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Alison Park Hotel
Buxton, Derbyshire
Rates on application. Child reductions available. Open all year. Hotel set in its own grounds, just
five minutes walk from the town's shopping centre, near to the Pavilion Gardens and Opera
House, and under a mile from the railway and bus stations. Ramped access with wheelchair
accessible bedrooms on ground and first floor. Lift to all floors. All bedrooms are equipped with
tea/coffee maker, direct dial telephone, central hearing and shaver socket. Over 70% of the rooms
have ensuite bath or shower and colour TV. Licensed bar and lounge with colour TV. Dogs
accepted. ENGLISH TOURISM COUNCIL 2 STAR CLASSIFICATION AND CATEGORY 1
ACCESSIBLE GRADING.
Special aids or equipment available: Manual bed hoists; wheel-in showers; commodes; monkey
poles; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cots and highchairs. Gullivers Kingdom at Matlock Bath only
30 minutes by car (for younger children). Height’s of Abraham at Matlock Bath for a cable car ride.
3 Temple Road BUXTON Derbyshire SK17 9BA Tel: 01298 22473 Fax: 01298 72709www.alisonpark-hotel.co.uk E-Mail: [email protected]
Bryn Meirion Guest House
Anglesey
Open all year. Family-run guest house providing excellent facilities for disabled people. Set in
lawned gardens, in coastal resort on the east side of Anglesey, 10 miles from the nearest coach
and rail stations. Eight ensuite ground floor bedrooms. Babysitting by arrangement. Dogs
accepted with prior discussion. Groups welcome (maximum 16 people). BRYN MEIRION GUEST
HOUSE
1992 WINNERS OF THE WALES TOURIST BOARD 'BEST SMALL TOURISM BUSINESS'.
WINNERS OF 'ACCOMMODATION OF 20 BEDS AND UNDER' IN HOLIDAY CARE AWARDS
1992. 'HIGHLY COMMENDED' IN HOLIDAY CARE AWARDS 1994.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric & manual bed hoists; electric bath hoists; adjustable
beds; Ripple mattresses; wheel-in shower; commodes; monkey poles; wheelchairs; raised toilet
seats; bed blocks; cot; highchair.
Amlwych Road BENLLECH Gwynedd LL74 8SR Tel: 01248 853118
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Glenachulish House
Argyll
A discount is offered for three or more nights stay. Small B&B establishment (HB available)
situated in a quiet glen, three miles from Glencoe and 15 miles from Fort William. The proprietors,
Elaine and Ray Morris, have first-hand experience of the difficulties in trying to find suitable
accommodation. They offer a sympathetic and understanding approach to guests who have a
learning disability and their carer/family. The accommodation consists of one family room with a
double and single bed and a twin-bedded room, both with tea/coffee making facilities. A shared
bathroom is situated between the two rooms. The accommodation is not suitable for people with a
physical disability as it is on the upper floor. A living room with TV is available and guests are not
obliged to be out of the house all day unless they chose to. Please note there are cats and a dog
in the house.
Special aids or equipment available: It may be possible to hire some equipment locally, with prior
notice.
Glenachulish BALLACHULISH Argyll PA39 4JZ Tel: 01855 811548
Trefoil House (Holiday Centre For People With Disabilities)
Edinburgh
The Trefoil Holiday Grant Fund provides enabling grants for people with special needs or disability
to take a holiday where a need exists that cannot be provided for by statutory provision, that is: by
law, through the National Health Service, or by local authorities.
http://www.trefoil.org.uk/Grant_Application_Form.pdf
Child reductions available. Open all year, except Christmas and New Year. Set in 20 acres of
parkland, six miles from Edinburgh City Centre, with easy access to all main roads, and seven
miles from the coach and rail stations. The centre is fully accessible and provides holiday
accommodation for children and adults with disabilities. Ideal for groups (maximum number 40),
families and individuals. Limited general assistance available, but guests requiring personal care
should bring their own carer. A variety of activities to suit all ages are available both indoor and
outdoor. These include indoor heated swimming pool, soft play area, games room, lounges,
library and gardens with nature trails and challenge course. Discos and barbecues can be
arranged on request. A minibus with tail lift is available for outings and sightseeing by prior
arrangement. Guide dogs accepted. Special Interest breaks, with care, are also arranged.
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TREFOIL HOUSE (HOLIDAY CENTRE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES)
SCOTTISH TOURIST BOARD 3 STAR LISTED AND COMMENDED GUEST HOUSE AND
CATEGORY 1 ACCESSIBLE GRADING.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric & manual bed hoists; manual bath hoists; Apollo
special baths; wheel-in showers; Clos-o-mat toilets; commodes; monkey poles; wheelchairs;
raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cots; highchairs; alarm call system in rooms; staff available to push
wheelchairs. Hydrotherapy arranged.
Gogarbank EDINBURGH City of Edinburgh EH12 9DA Tel: 0131 339 3148 Fax: 0131 317 7271
LIVABILITY HOTELS (previously John Grooms)
http://www.livability.org.uk/
Telephone for full brochure and booking 08456 58 44 78
1) West Shore Hotel, Llandudno
•
•
•
•
•
emergency call points
wheel-in showers
overhead and mobile hoists
facilities for hearing impaired people
electric adjustable beds
We pride ourselves of the excellent service we provide. There are 18 rooms in the hotel, including
two doubles, nine twins, six singles and a family room. Explore the many attractions the area
provides.
Within easy reach of the hotel are breathtaking Snowdonia National Park, the historic Isle of
Anglesey, and Conwy Castle. Llandudno is a genteel town with two fine beaches and renowned
for a Victorian pier, contemporary art galleries, North Wales Theatre, Alice in Wonderland Centre
and Copper Mines.
2) The Promenade Hotel, Minehead
•
•
•
•
•
emergency call points
fixed & manual hoists
wheel-in showers
facilities for hearing impaired people
electric adjustable beds
The hotel was John Grooms first holiday venture in 1976 and continues to offer accessible
holidays to disabled people, their friends and family. The Promenade is comfortable, welcoming
and boasts delicious cuisine.The Promenade is accessible by wheelchair users travelling
independently and has TFANAS category 1 status. It offers a wide range of amenities including 8
accessible rooms.
Minehead is in Somerset's most popular holiday resort. It offers a wide, sandy beach with
wheelchair access from the promenade that is linked to the shopping area by a delightful, treelined avenue. S.ea cruises, the West Somerset steam railway, Butlins, Somerset World and
funfair, Aquasplash indoor leisure pool, Blenheim Gardens with its concerts, the sea front and
entertainment areas
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C) IN EUROPE
CHANNEL ISLANDS: Jersey
Maison Des Landes Hotel
Maison des Landes is a charitable Trust set-up by the Lions Club of Jersey to provide holidays in
Jersey specifically for the disabled.The Trust runs a holiday hotel catering for disabled guests and
their families or escorts, in accommodation which has been specially designed to meet the needs
of the disabled.
The hotel is situated nine miles from St. Helier on the gorse and heather covered headlands of
Les Landes, with panoramic views of St. Ouen's Bay and the Atlantic.The beautiful gardens
surrounding the hotel make an ideal place to relax and soak up the Jersey sunshine. In the
evening the comfortable lounge is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the company of other guests.
The hotel has a large heated indoor pool, with special wheelchairs and ramped sides for easy
access. Hotel staff are on hand to assist guests in to the pool.
Children of disabled parents and the parents of disabled children are most welcome. Other
relatives are also welcome provided accommodation is available.
Transfer to and from airport and ferry terminal and daily outings in adapted minibuses. Open mid
March to end of October. Early booking advised. Purpose built hotel for disabled guests and their
families, and fully accessible for wheelchair users. The hotel offers accommodation for up to 40
people in single, twin and family rooms, all ensuite and each with emergency pager and tea/coffee
making facilities. District nurse on call by arrangement. Facilities include an indoor heated
swimming pool, satellite TV lounge, pool table, darts and a patio area for barbecues (weather
permitting). Aids for people who are deaf or those who are blind.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric bed & bath hoists; adjustable beds; specialist
mattresses; Parker baths; wheel-in showers; commodes; monkey poles; wheelchairs; walking
aids; oxygen; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cots; highchairs.
Route des Landes ST OUEN Jersey JE3 2AA Tel: 01534 481683 Fax: 01534 485327 E-Mail:
[email protected]
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MAJORCA
1) Hotel Acorn Pionero, Santa Ponsa, Majorca
This hotel is located a few minutes from the beach, shops, bars and restaurants. It has adapted
rooms available. The rooms are quite spacious and have wheelchair access. The restaurant is
easily accessible. The adaptations to the bathroom are a stand in shower with a seat and
handrail, there are handrails for the toilet. The outside pool has easy access but there are no
hoists by the pool. It has shared facilities with its sister hotels. There is ramped access to the
reception area, which is quite steep. www.hotelesglobales.com/cgi-vel/globales/index.pro?idi=0
and select the required hotel link under 'Accommodation'.
2) Hotel Acorn Santa Lucia, Palma Nova, Majorca
This hotel overlooks the beach and is minutes away from shops, bars and restaurants. It has
adapted rooms available. Access to this hotel is up a slight incline then straight into the reception
area.
This hotel and resort is absolutely ideal for disabled people. The hotel has 7 adapted rooms. “The
room was big enough for me to use and stay in my wheelchair. I could even get into the
bathroom in it. The bathroom has grab rails for the toilet and shower area. The toilet was a bit
low but a high seat can be hired if the need is there. The shower has a pull down seat and though
the grab rails are not ideally positioned I managed OK. The shower is not a wheel in shower so
there is a slight threshold to get your foot over. Scooters, wheelchairs and all sorts of aids can be
hired from a shop in the hotel reception area.” The restaurant and bars are all wheelchair
accessible. There are disabled toilets on the ground floor in the reception area. The pool area is
wheelchair accessible.
www.hotelesglobales.com/cgi-vel/globales/index.pro?idi=0 and select the required hotel link under
'Accommodation'.
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3) Hotel Bahia del Este, Cala Millor, Majorca
This hotel is located a few minutes from the beach, shops, bars and restaurants. It has adapted
rooms available, which are on the ground floor. The adaptations to the bathroom are a shower
with seat, handrails etc. The restaurant is on the 1st floor, which is accessed by a lift, which is
large enough to take a wheelchair easily. There is ramped access to the reception area.
www.majorca-mallorca.co.uk/hotel_bahia_del_este.htm
3) Disabled Access Holidays, Puerto Pollensa, Majorca
“We have just come back from a 2 week, self catering holiday in Puerto Pollensa, Majorca. We
stayed in the 1st floor apartment in the apartment block in the picture above. Access was by lift
and the lift took a normal size wheelchair with room to spare”. The apartment IS adapted for
disabled people and is well equipped. The apartment is 2 minutes from the main square and also
2 minutes from the beach.
Puerto Pollensa is an absolute delight and is very flat, which is good for wheelchairs. The
promenade is very long and goes into the ‘Pine Walk’ which is great. The beach is safe and the
sea is warm. No access on to the beach for wheelchairs but with the pine trees there is a good
deal of shade.
For full details of the apartments available got to www.dah-europe.com
4) Voranova Hotel, Palm Nova ,Majorca
There are hoists into the pool. In the peak seasons this is a very lively complex with many young
people enjoying the complex services. Great for families and young couples looking for fun!
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The hotel has 305 Rooms, Level Access Shower, Air Conditioning , Manual Height Adjustable
Bed , Manual Hoist Manual Shower Chair, Accessible Transport , Pool with Hoist Access, Oxygen
Hire , Wheelchair Hire
Entrance Doorway Width: 100cm . The entrance is level access with large Automatic doors. There
is a steep exit slope outside the complex, where assistance maybe required. The main routes are
accessible with accessible public transport available. Accessible Lift (Elevator) Available 80cm
Wide Door, 110cm Deep. Number of Accessible Bedrooms (without En-suite): 54 . Number of
Accessible Bathrooms: 54. Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available .
Toilet grab rails on both sides . Shower has grab rails . Shower has a drop down chair
The 30.000 m2 complex consists of 305 studio type apartments, garden areas and a spacious
terrace around a large pool with children’s corner (for more comfort, the pool is heated in autumn
and winter). Further facilities include pool bar, restaurant buffet with “show cooking”, lounge snack
bar, television and parlour game room, air-conditioned indoor pool with hydromassage and
conveyor-crane for disabled persons, minimarket, conference room, library and fitness room.
Distance to nearest Town: quarter mile
The Son Caliu Beach is only 150m away, and the large white sand beach of Palma NovaMagaluf, whose magnificent promenade is perfectly accessible for disabled persons, is about
250m away from Voranova. Hoists and shower chairs can be reserved but this has to be
requested. There is the option to hire a personal hoist as the hotel reserve the right to share
hoists if in high demand
http://www.accessatlast.com/disabled-holiday/accommodation-info/382/
Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555 Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
SPAIN
There is a vast array of self-catering accommodation (villas, apartments, etc) throughout Spain,
specifically geared to the needs of disabled visitors.
Contact : Access at Last for all details : 01772 814 555
www.accessatlast.com/disabled-holiday/accommodation/SPAIN/
1) O.A.S.I.S. Holidays
– Finestrat, Spain
Oasis Holidays offer a great holiday opportunity for disabled people, their families and friends. our
villas situated in stunning scenery at the foot of the traditional and historic village of Finestrat, with
views to the Mediterranean and the Sierra Aitana mountains . We provide holiday facilities for
people with a disability who require care along with their companions, carers and friends. Each
villa has been carefully designed and equipped to the highest standard to meet the needs of
guests with varying abilities who wish to holiday with complete freedom. We can offer you a full
board respite package including taking care of your care needs, or we can offer you a selfcatering villa providing care on an hourly basis giving you the choice to take a holiday with or
without your family and/or your every day carer. Or maybe you would like a holiday with your
carer or family but they would like to take advantage of a holiday themselves where bye we will
take over the care needs for you on an hourly basis, giving you the choice to take as much or as
little help as you need.
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The accommodation is arranged in separate and individual villas.We have spectacular
panoramic views of the sea and the mountains. The terrace offers you ample sunbathing area
around the swimming pool or for those looking for a quiet shady spot. the garden and porch is
ideal. Your holiday base is conveniently situated for those who like a quiet relaxing time but also
to take advantage of local attractions. Excursions into the surrounding mountains and villages,
local market day's, the beaches; some have wheelchair ramps so that you can go onto the
sand,and disabled services that can assist you into the water.
The typical and traditional old village of Finestrat offers many bars and restaurants with facilities
for wheelchairs. Many areas of the village are passable with wheelchairs and a walk through this
picturesque and historic village is a trip into the past where time has stood still
e-mail [email protected] or tel. our agent Helen in England on 01892665294
2) Las Piedras, Alcaucin, Costa del Sol,SPAIN
Las Piedras,**As Seen On TV** is a beautifully appointed, family run guesthouse in a lovely, rural
area of Southern Spain. It offers flexible, relaxing holidays for disabled people, their friends &
family.
Full Board, B&B or Self Catering. Airport Transfers & Excursions by Accessible Vehicle.
Hotel has 5 Rooms . Level Access Shower . Air Conditioning . Electric Bed . Manual Hoist
Assisted Shower Chair . Manual Shower Chair .Pressure Mattress. Pool with Hoist Access
Oxygen Hire . Entrance Doorway Width: 100cm
The spacious rooms are all level access. There is paving all around the complex which leads from
car park, Bar, accommodation to pool. The whole building is wheelchair friendly.
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (with En-suite): 5 . Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 5. Toilets
with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available . Toilet grab rails on both sides .
Shower has grab rails
The grounds are ramped throughout. There are 3 sun terraces / patios with stunning views.
Always some with sun & others with shade. Outdoor pool with hoist and grab bars.
Distance to nearest Town: 5 miles . The villages of Puente Don Manuel and Alcaucin are 5 miles
away. They have bars, shops & restaurants. Alcaucin is a typical white village of Andalusia. The
coast is a 25 minute drive away. Malaga city is an hour´s drive. We provide excursions and airport
transfers by accessible vehicle.
Stay on Full Board or B&B. The full board package includes airport transfers & excursions. There
is also a non-accessible cottage in the grounds La Casita which can be hired on a self catering
basis. Las Piedras can be hired in its entirety as a self catering villa. Discounts for children, cots,
high chairs etc available free of charge. Care can be arranged at additional cost. We have a range
of mobility aids free of charge plus available for hire powerchairs & profiling beds. Please check
out our website for special offers & discounts.
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Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Malaga
Approximate flight time from London to Malaga = 2.5 Hours. Accessible Taxi / Bus can be
arranged.
Alcaucin, Costa Del Sol 29713, SPAIN Tel: +34 952033100Fax: +34 952033100
Email: [email protected] http://www.laspiedras.co.uk/
3) Accessible Villa for 12 – Calpe, Costa Blanca, SPAIN
This fantastic spacious 5 bedroom family apartment that can comfortably sleep 12 people. The
apartment is the ground floor of a Villa which has been adapted for wheelchair users with 2 fully
adapted en-suite twin bedrooms,a further double bedroom and 2 single bedrooms.
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 12 . Level Access Shower . Manual Hoist . Assisted Shower Chair .
Manual Shower Chair. Pressure Mattress . Pool with Hoist Access. Oxygen Hire . Entrance
Doorway Width: 96cm
There is a car port at the front of the property with space for 1 car. From here, there is a flat path
all around the apartment through the beautiful gardens to the apartment front door. There is a
ramped entrance into the apartment.
2 fully adapted en-suite twin bedrooms,a further double bedroom and 2 single bedrooms. There is
also a sofa bed and two fold out single beds. The owners live upstairs. Their aim is to offer
holidays with a home from home feeling. The two ensuite bathrooms both have roll in showers
with grab rails, 50 cm toilets with grab rails on either side and adjustable sinks, it's all accessible.
There is a 3rd shower room available but it's not accessible.
Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available . Toilet grab rails on both sides
. Shower has grab rails
Distance to nearest Town: 2 miles
The apartment is in a quiet urbanisation, 10 minutes drive from the centre of Calpe, 30 mins from
Benidorm and 75 mins from Alicante airport. Calpe has all the attractions of a normal seaside
town with 4 separate beaches and is famous for its superb fish restaurants. Calpe has wheelchair
accessible beaches with disabled parking and disabled toilets. You must go and visit Terra Mitica,
the famous theme park just outside of Benidorm or the newly opened Terra Natura, animal and
waterpark. Both are accessible by wheelchairs. Wheelchair adapted taxis are available to help
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you get out and about. Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Alicante . Aproximate flight time
from London to Alicante = 2 Hours 15 Min..Accessible Taxi / Bus
Calpe, Costa Blanca, SPAIN Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555 .Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
www.accessatlast.com/disabled-holiday/accommodation-info/371/
4) La Oasis - Apartment 1, Clape, Costa Blanca, SPAIN
Sleeps 4. Located in the picturesque town of Calpe on the Mediterranean coast between Valencia
and Alicante, it offers a fully accessible vacation villa apartment and medical equipment rental like power wheelchairs-. Medical attendant services are possible.
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 4 . Level Access Shower . Electric Bed . Manual Hoist .Manual
Shower Chair Pool with Hoist Access. Entrance Doorway Width: 80cm . Level access throughout
from car park to the accommodation entrance.. The living room includes Digital SAT TV / Audio,
DVD and mp3 player, Broadband connection, mini safe, fans, ironing FACILITIES, fully equipped
kitchen. Spacious bathroom with toilet, grab bars, tub, bidet, sink a roll in shower with a shower
chair. Easy access onto the pool terrace where you’ll find an attractive Spanish style shaded area.
A raised sun bed for wheelchair users. The pool has a underwater jet stream / massage. A hoist
to get in the pool (max.120 kg.) for disabled persons.
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (with En-suite): 1 Number of Accessible Bedrooms (without Ensuite): 2 Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 1. Toilets with Left Transfer Available .Toilet grab rails
on both sides Shower has grab rails . Shower has a drop down chair
This holiday is based on self-catering. Half Board for groups possible. Supermarket within 10
minutes walk. Fine Restaurants are 10 min. walk away. The resort itself has scores of restaurants
of every type.
Distance to nearest Town: 2.5 miles . Costa Blanca has everything - from big and brash Benidorm
to peaceful white washed villages; thrilling theme parks to miles of sandy beaches. Car rental can
be pre-arranged or booked in resort. Calpe has 2 accessible beaches which have wooden
boardwalks onto the beach, which extends into the sea! There are accessible changing rooms,
accessible toilets, and wheelchairs available to access the sea. There are disabled car parks
nearby.
Wheelchair accessible transfer from Alicante to accommodation takes 1 hour approx. Wheelchair
accessible pool with entrance elevator and external shower. Repair service with wheelchair
defects and letting of aids (electrically adjustable beds, electrical wheelchairs etc.)
Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Alicante . Approximate flight time from London to Alicante
= 2 hour 10 min. Accessible Taxi / Bus can be arranged.
Calpe, Costa Blanca 03710 SPAIN Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555 Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
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5) Carefree Holidays, Las Golondrinas HOTEL,Costa Calida SPAIN
Las Golondrinas is a family run guesthouse where Pata qualified English nurse) and husband
John have been offering holidays for disabled guests, their friends and families since 2001.It is
situated in a small hamlet with beautiful mountain views but within a 30 minute drive from the blue
flag, sandy beaches of Mazarron and the historic cities of Cartagena and Murcia. Accessible
minibus for transfers and excursions
Hotel has 8 Rooms .Level Access Shower . Air Conditioning . Electric Bed . Manual Hoist.
Assisted Shower Chair Manual Shower Chair Pool with Hoist Access. Entrance Doorway Width:
120cm
Las Golondrinas consists of 2 houses surrounding an inner courtyard. Each house has its own
separate entrance and private patio area
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (with En-suite): 4 Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 4. Toilets
with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available . Toilet grab rails on both sides
The 2 houses are back to back, each with its own private patio and there is a traditional Spanish
inner courtyard between the 2 houses. The pool and garden area is totally wheelchair accessible
with no steps and there is a poolside bar and dining room The pool has access by hoist and is
solar heated.
Distance to nearest Town: 6 miles . The small village of La Pinilla which has 2 bars and a small
general store is about 3kms away. The nearest town is at Fuente Alamo which is about 10kms.
This is a market town with a good market and several shops and supermarkets but for the serious
shoppers the city of Cartagena is about a 30 minute drive away. Nearest Airport to the
accommodation: Murcia .Approximate flight time from London to Murcia = 2 Hours. Accessible
Taxi / Bus can be arranged
Pantaleo, La Pinilla, Murcia, Costa Calida 30335 SPAIN
Tel: +34 968437010Email: [email protected] www.carefreespain.com/index-old.htm
6) Montana Sol Torremolinos Spain
Montana Sol, Malaga is a full board accommodation complex that has been specifically adapted
to be accessible for all. the hotel meets the needs of wheelchair users, friends, family and carers.
Located in the warmth of the Mediterranean, the resort is situated near the famous fishing village
of La Carihuela.
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Hotel has 8 Rooms . Level Access Shower . Electric Bed . Manual Hoist . Assisted Shower Chair .
Manual Shower Chair . Pool with Hoist Access
Entrance Doorway Width: 80cm . There is a slight slope to access complex courtyard.
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (with En-suite): 8. Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with
Right Transfer Toilet grab rails on both sides
Distance to nearest Town: 1 miles Award winning Puerto Marina, Benalmadena. The Marina is
one of our local trips. Accessible Buses leaving each morning, for the local attractions such as
marinas, beaches, shopping centres and local markets. On two evenings a week, our buses are
available for guest recreation.
Flight Details Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Malaga . Approximate flight time from
London to Malaga = 2 Hours. Accessible Taxi / Bus can be arranged.
El Pinillo, Torremolinos, Costa Del Sol 29620 SPAIN Tel: 0034 952382442
Email: [email protected] . www.montanasol.com/
7) Casa Del Lago - Andalucia
Situated in inland Andalucia, approximately 1 hour from Malaga and the Costa Del Sol in the
peaceful whitewashed village of El Chorro. The apartment with pool sleeps 4/5 comfortably, but if
your family is larger we do not mind. It is fully adapted and equipped to UK standards for
wheelchair users with hoist, hydraulic bed, shower chairs etc. The owner is a UK qualified
learning disabilities nurse with a NVQ4 in care management and 26 years experience supporting
people with an autism spectrum disorder. Adult accompanying and babysitting services are
available, as well as full or supplementary care packages. Catering packages from full board to
self catering are also available. A wide range of activities are available locally including quad
biking, offroading, cycling, rock climbing, walking, horseriding, fishing and canoeing etc.
Independent travellers are welcome. A venue for independent travellers and families alike.
EQUIPMENT
All the following equipment is available free of charge to our guests:
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Manual hoist with a load limit of 175kgs. Guests will need to provide their own slings
Fully height adjustable standard shower seat with arms
Sea horse shower / toilet chair
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Raised toilet seat
Fully hydraulic height adjustable bed with tempura pressure relieving mattress and safety rails
All the above equipment meets all UK health and safety regulations and is maintained to UK
standards
In addition, child booster car seats, travel cot and a baby bouncer seat are available free of charge
Waterproof bedding is available on request
A limited supply of beach towels are also available on request as are cool bags, thermos flasks etc.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
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Our fully wheelchair adapted minibus is available for hire for self drive or with our driver. The
minibus sits 5 plus driver and wheelchair (only available for disabled guests).
We understand how stressful it can be for families who provide care and support, especially
families that have young carers. We are happy to be able to provide care packages individually
planned to meet the needs of our guests for full or supplementary care. Provided by UK qualified
care and nursing staff. An ideal opportunity for parents who ' s children provide their care to enjoy a
family holiday in the certain knowledge that they will be supported by highly experienced,
professional, friendly staff, and that their carers can also have a well earned break.
We know how important it is for those who wish to travel independently, or with friends to have the
support they need to enable them to do this.
We are happy to be able to provide a wide variety of catering packages, from B&B to full board, or
any combination. We will do our best to accommodate any special dietary requirements.
We can arrange supplies of incontinence aids locally in order to cut down on your luggage weight.
Grocery shopping can be done for you to be here on your arrival, including diabetic and gluten free
products.
Adult accompanying and baby sitting services are also available.
All terrain disability scooter hire delivered for your arrival. single or two seaters available please
follow the link to Heliscooters for more information.
Arrangement of sharps disposal.
Jacci & Rob Sheehy, Owners, Estacion El Chorro, 39 Alora Malaga 29500, Spain; tel: +34 95 249
52 34, +34 65 897 34 14; email: [email protected]; website: www.casa-dellago-holidays.com
Casa Vaeraneo
Patrick and Chantal live in the heart of the Murcian countryside, overlooking the Carrascoy
Mountain Range approximately 15km from Murcia airport and 80km from Alicante airport. The
property is well suited to families with autistic children set in one acre of secure fenced garden
and an 8m x 12m swimming pool which is also securely gated, giving children the freedom to
wander in the gardens safely. There is a spacious ground level two bedroom apartment sleeping
up to 5 people. Nearby are the beaches of the Mazzaron coastline where children can swim and
play safely. The cities of Murcia and Cartagena are close by with their wealth of historic interest.
Airport collection and return is part of the service and even offer babysitting if you would like a
night out to yourselves.
Marina, Casa Veraneo; tel: 0845 869 9416; email: [email protected]
Disabled Access Holidays
Disabled Access Holidays owns and operates accessible self catering accommodation to rent in
Puerto Pollensa, Majorca, that has been designed and adapted to meet the needs of the disabled
traveller. We have two and three bedrooms apartments available.
Disabled Access Holidays Ltd, 2351 Dumbarton Road, Yoker, Glasgow, G14 0NN; tel: 0845 257
0113; email: [email protected]; website: www.disabledaccessholidays.com
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FRANCE
1) Clos Des Vignes (Bed & Breakfast)
Clos des Vignes lies in an acre of quiet vineyard and gardens in the hamlet of 'Les Quatre Routes'
(Le Givre), situated in South Vendee, Western France, 20km south of La Roche sur Yon.
Beautiful sandy beaches with wooded picnic areas, floral parks, nature reserves, lakes, historic
sites and vineyards are all within a short drive and wheelchair accessible. The main aim of the
proprietors is to provide accommodation to families with a disabled family member. Up to seven
guests can be accommodated in two new, independent lodgings which have been especially
designed and equipped for wheelchair users, or guests who have reduced mobility. The
accommodation has been approved by the Association des Paralyses de France and are classed
3 keys by Clevacances in France. The first lodging, which accommodates two people, comprises
a bedroom and ensuite shower room with WC. The second, suitable for a small family or group of
four, contains two bedrooms, has a shower room with WC (accessible from both rooms) and
opens onto a small, private garden. Each lodging has tea and coffee making facilities and guests
have the use of the garden with BBQ and garden furniture. A fridge is also available. For further
details and a copy of their colour brochure, please contact the proprietors, Michael and Jackie
Hubbard, at the address below.
Special aids or equipment available: Wheel-in showers; bed blocks (electric hoists; manual hoists
and some types of wheelchair are available for hire locally, including beach buggies).
Les Quatre Routes LE GIVRE France 85540 Tel: 00 33 251 989186
http://perso.wanadoo.fr/closdesvignes/
E-Mail: [email protected]
2) La Riviere, French Self Catering Property
La Riviere is a traditional stone-built cottage situated in quiet seclusion about a mile from the
village of Reffuveille in the Manche region of Normandy. It is set amongst gentle rolling
countryside with woods and fields..Downstairs there is a single bedroom specially designed for
wheelchair access with a hospital bed which lifts and tilts, a wheel-in shower with shower chair
and high w/c. Upstairs there are two double rooms and one triple room with an additional single
bed on the landing. The access around the property is for a standard wheelchair,
Reffuveille itself is a small village with a few houses clustered around a church. There is a baker
and a general store. The town of Brecey is 10km from the property. It has a supermarket, petrol
station, small shops, bars, newsagents and cafes. The bank has an ATM for your convenience
and there is a local swimming pool. There is also a doctor and chemist operating
www.break-charity.org/go/la_riviere_french_self_catering_property.php
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3) Accessible Gite, Normandy
Fresne la Mere FRANCE
Welcome to this 17th Century Normandy farm in the fertile lower Calvados region of France.
There is an accessible Gite for everyone!
Accommodation Sleeps Up to 12 .Level Access Shower . Manual Hoist . Manual Shower Chair.
Pool with Hoist Access
Entrance Doorway Width: 90cm . Gite Martin entrance is level access. Doors throughout are
90cm. The ground floor accessible bedroom has a delightful en-suite with level access shower.
There are 3 more bedrooms on the first floor. A spacious kitchen, dining room and lounge occupy
the rest of the ground floor and the paved patio and garden are easily accessed from the french
windows at the rear of the gite.Number of Accessible Bedrooms (with En-suite): 1 Number of
Accessible Bathrooms: 1
Closomat Toilet . Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available .Toilet grab
rails on both sides Shower has grab rails. Gite Martin is fully equipped with garden furniture and
BBQ equipment in the patio and garden overlooking the duck pond (safely fenced from roaming
infants). Distance to nearest Town: 1 miles
Situated near to Falaise, the birthplace of William the Conqueror and the scene of the final battle
of Normandy in 1944. The picturesque Suisse Normandie and miles of fine sandy beaches are
within an hours drive. Deauville, Honfleur, Bayeux and Mont St Michel are within easy reach.
The Gite is a 17th Century Normandy farm in the fertile lower Calvados region of France. Set in
seven acres of unspoilt countryside, the farm has plenty of room to roam, with gardens, fields, and
wildlife areas. Five beautifully renovated gites can provide self-catering accommodation for up to
fifty people, with three of our gites accessible to wheelchair users, including drive in showers,
extra wide doors, support bars, lateral access to toilets, and no steps.
Nearest Airport to Dinard .Approx flight time from London to Dinard = 40 Mins.
Falaise,Calvados14700 FRANCE
Tel: +33 (0) 231 90 34 61Fax: 01706 845041Email: [email protected]
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4) La Roche Derrien, Brittany, France
Luxury Apartments - newly converted in a former cotton mill on the banks of the River Jaudy, in
the beautiful area of Côtes d'Armor in Brittany. 10 minutes from the stunning Pink Granite Coast.
OPEN ALL YEAR!
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 6 . Level Access Shower . Air Conditioning . Electric Bed . Manual
Height Adjustable Bed . Manual Hoist . Assisted Shower Chair . Manual Shower Chair .Pressure
Mattress
Accessible Transport .Disabled Parking. Entrance Doorway Width: 93cm . Access via a ramp to
large lobby area, with stairs and passenger lift to all floors. Alternative Entrance - Recommended
for wheelchair access . Accessible Lift (Elevator) Available 80cm Wide Door, 138cm Deep
Large open plan living, dining and kitchen area. WIth satellite TV (English), DVD, Internet access.
Kitchen is fully fitted with washing machine, hob and oven, fridge, all utensils.
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (without En-suite): 2 . Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 1.
Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available . Toilet grab rails on both sides
. Shower has grab rails
Bathroom Alarm. Large accessible garden, ramps and terraces down to the river, childrens play
area, bbq's, garden furniture and 2 pot bellied pigs!
Distance to nearest Town: 0.5 miles . Situated on the edge of the village, all amenities can be
found, bakers, butchers, bar, restaurant, small supermarket, doctor, post office. 15 minutes drive
to Pink Granite Coast. Larger towns of Treguier, Paimpol and Lannion 15 minutes drive.
There are several places to visit and explore around the area, cultural, historical architectural.
Great places to eat and drink, with the French being obsessional about food! Many water sports
are available sailing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing also more extreme sports such as sand karting,
etc. Local markets are a tradition and you can buy anything from socks through to souvenirs. In
the summer months many towns and bars have live entertainment in the evenings which you can
enjoy whilst taking part in the European pastime that is known as "cafe culture", sitting, chatting,
drinking and eating whilst you watch the world go by!
Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Brest or Dinard Approximate flight time from London to
Brest or Dinard = 45
Accessible Taxi / Bus can be arranged
La Roche Derrien, Brittany 22450 FRANCE Tel: 0800 949 6801 Fax: +33 296 91 55 97
Email: [email protected] http://www.ineedaholidaytoo.com/
5) I NEED A HOLIDAY TOO offers accessible and supported holidays for disabled people in
France. They offer accommodation, equipment hire, adapted transport and support workers. I
Need A Holiday Too caters for individuals, groups and families.
contact: Jacqui Albarn
address: I Need A Holiday Too, 21 Rue St Jean, La Roche Derrion, 22450, France
telephone: 0800 949 6801
website: www.ineedaholidaytoo.com
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CYPRUS
Villa Eureka Apartment , Pafos CYPRUS
This is a wonderful apartment with a hoist to the pool in a very pleasant part of Cyprus. A must for
anyone wanting a holiday that's got no surprises just peace of mind.
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 4 Level Access Shower Air Conditioningn Manual Height
Adjustable Bed Manual Shower Chair Pool with Hoist Access Entrance Doorway Width: 82cm
Private road with no kerbs or pavements access to front door on tiled surface. Alternative
Entrance - Recommended for wheelchair access Open plan area with kitchen access adjacent.
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (without En-suite): 2 . Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 1
Toilets with Right Transfer Available . Toilet grab rails on both sides Shower has grab rails.
Distance to nearest Town: 7.2 miles . Paphos is the nearest town with major shopping and large
permanent market. Peyia village centre is 500mtrs from where the the apartment is located. This
has 4 restaurants but access is difficult, it also has 3 takeaways, 2 well stocked supermarkets, a
delicatessen, butchers,fishmongers, banks and church (Greek Orthodox), Doctor and dispensing
Chemist. 1.5 miles is Coral Bay with lots of restaurants at least 4 with accessible access, bars,
cafes, variety of shops, Hotels and beach. The general Hospital is about 5 miles away but you will
need an E121, There are numerous Private Hospitals in the Paphos environs. There are
fascinating villages with specialised and local eating within 20 to 30 mins in a car.ie Agios
Georgious, Kathikas, Polis, Latchi with a marina and good fish restaurant. Nearest Airport to the
accommodation: Pafos .Approximate flight time from London to Pafos = 4.5 Hours. Accessible
Taxi / Bus can be arranged.
9, Anexartisias Street, Peyia, Pafos 8560 CYPRUS Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555
www.accessatlast.com/disabled-holiday/accommodation-info/420/
GREECE
Serene Villa Apartments Kefalonia Greece
Get away from it all on this stunning Ionion Island and stay in our peaceful self catering
apartments with sea view and full disabled access. Each of the 2 well equipped apartments has 2
double bedrooms kitchen lounge dining area with sofa bed and large, wheel in shower room,
balcony, side patio, air conditioning and car parking. The villa is set in gardens with gentle sloping
paths, shady pergola, BBQ area and outdoor pool with a hoist. Airport transfers in accessible
vehicle included.
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Accommodation Sleeps Upto 6 Level Access Shower Air Conditioning Manual Shower Chair. Pool
with Hoist Access. Entrance Doorway Width: 90cm
Number of Accessible Bedrooms (without En-suite): 2 . Number of Accessible Bathrooms: 1
Toilets with Left Transfer and Toilets with Right Transfer Available .Toilet grab rails on both sides
.Shower has grab rails
The villa is set amongst olive groves in a peaceful setting with its own grounds facing the sea.
There are gentle paths through the gardens, with water feature, pergola and BBQ area. There is
an outdoor pool with a hoist and large car parking area.
Distance to nearest Town: 7 miles
We are close to a small traditional Greek village with pretty gardens adorned with flowers and
interesting churches We are 5 minutes drive from the sea with Blue flag beach, mini markets and
local tavernas. The main town of Argostoli with its visiting yachts and shopping precinct is 20
minutes drive. There are many pretty beaches and stunning scenery to see. Night life is low key
and usually spent eating outdoors at a taverna some of which have Greek dancing. This villa is
ideal for a get away from it all peaceful holidays and is in a very private setting. Complementary
therapies are available on site - hypnotherapy, reiki and life coaching. Friendly advice is available
from resident British owners. As a teacher of pupils with special needs I have some insight into
the needs of visitors requiring accessible accommodation and our property was built in 2006 with
the Disability Act in mind. It is also suitable for families and mobile guests alike. It is an ideal
opportunity to visit a greek island with its unique culture and scenery, knowing that your comfort
and enjoyment is important to us.
Nearest Airport to the accommodation: Kefalonia . Approximate flight time from London to
Kefalonia = 3 hours approx. Accessible Taxi / Bus can be arranged.
PO Box 208, Argostoli, Kefalonia 28100 GREECE
Tel: 07831180163 or 0030 26710 41131 Email: [email protected] www.serenecentre.com
ITALY
Centro Ferie Salvatore, Rome, Italy
Summary: This is a superb resort! The first time we saw this beach, I thought I was seeing
things... concrete to the sea edge? Wheelchair level deck chairs? A truly accessible Oasis in the
Sun!
Hotel has 46 Rooms, Level Access Shower, Manual Hoist, Manual Shower Chair
Entrance Doorway Width: 90cm . Whoever comes to Centro Ferie Salvatore is overwhelmed by
the beautiful gardens and surroundings, which are all wheelchair accessible. sit on the terrace in
front of the main building and enjoy your meals which overlooks Monte Circeo and the
picturesque typical Italian old village. The grounds are all level throughout. A wheelchair user or
someone with walking impairments are able to access everything from the restaurant, Bar,
apartments, gym and sitting areas.where you can move independently to all areas and if you want
to go for a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea, you can be assisted by our life guard, who
will help you to get into the water with our special beach wheelchair. Toilets, showers and
changing rooms obviously are wheelchair accessible on the beach.
The vacation centre has its own private beach one mile from the centre; we have the most
wheelchair accessible beach in Italy. You can easily reach it on foot or make use of our free
transport service. The shuttle service we provide is fully equipped with proper lifts and ramps to
get to the beach and back to the centre. With ramps and tile paths on to the beach and the sea, it
is very accessible. Showers, changing rooms and toilets are all of course wheelchair accessible
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on the beach. With a small fee you rent an umbrella or sun bed and the life guards and our staff
will help you into the Mediterranean Sea. You don't have to use your own wheelchair because we
have our own specialized water proof wheelchairs. Even children can go swimming here without
any danger because the sea becomes deeper at a slow pace. Not to mention there is no current
or breaking waves. Close to the beach are two lovely bars. The owners are very nice and have
become very accustomed to the need of wheelchair users.
San Felice, Latina – Roma 04017 ITALY
Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555. Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
www.centroferiesalvatore.com/eng/index.php
MALTA
Mellieha Holiday Centre
Mellieha Holiday Centre provides an extensive range of bungalows and studios that cater for the
different needs of residents who just have one thing in mind: relaxation in style.
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 6, Level Access Shower, Manual Hoist , Tracker Hoist, Assisted
Shower Chair, Manual Shower Chair, Pool with Ramped Access
Specially-designed bungalows which provide full access to wheelchairs and other amenities
required by such needs, such as at the bathroom. The majority of clients staying in the resort are
Danish.
Mellieha Holiday Centre, Mellieha Bay, Mellieha, MLH 9064, MALTA
Telephone:(356) 2289 3000www.mhc.com.mt [email protected]
PORTUGAL
Casa dos Caes (Self Catering) (Lagoa, Algarve)
Spacious, luxury Air-conditioned, fully equipped private VILLA in its own gardens with private
swimming pool. Purpose-Built for Wheelchair Users, all doors over 1M wide, specialist
shower/toileting facilities - ideal for families and for those with disabled or elderly travelers.
Sleeps 2 -8 (plus cot& Z beds).
www.accessatlast.com/disabled-holiday/accommodation/PORTUGAL/
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D) FURTHER AFIELD
THAILAND
Holiday villa Coconut Grove Hua Hin, Thailand
This is a great wheelchair accessible villa with swimmingpool and jaccuzzi with hoist in Hua Hin,
Thailand. This ground floor holiday villa is fully equipped for upto 6 people
Sleeps Upto 6, Level Access Shower, Air Conditioning, Electric Bed, Manual Hoist , Assisted
Shower Chair, Manual Shower Chair, Pool with Hoist Access
Entrance Doorway Width: 120cm. Villa Coconut Grove has a level access entrance from veranda,
doorway is 120 cm wide. To veranda a ramp, length 2x2 m, 8 degrees. Distance to nearest Town:
2 miles. Hua Hin is the Royal beach resort. The Royal Family of Thailand resides here during
wintertime. Nice sightseeing in Hua Hin and surrounding areas, like night market, weekend
market, temples, pine beach garden, elephant village. Good shopping, tailor made clothes and
shoes, latest movies on dvd, watches, t-shirts and jeans, pair of spectacles, etc. Good food and
drinks in many restaurants for only a few pounds.
Soi 102, Hua Hin Thailand, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110 THAILAND
Tel: +44 (0) 1772 814 555 Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
USA
Accessible Florida Villa
Accommodation Sleeps Upto 8, Level Access Shower, Air ConditioningThere is a covered patio
area by the pool and the pool has a hoist to assist access to the less able person.
Entrance Doorway Width: 92cm There is level access to the villa, throughout the inside and out on
to the pool deck. The doors throughout villa are 920mm wide. The main bedroom has a bed which
enables a hoist to get under and the en-suite is 1120mm wide which has a level access shower; a
built in seat is fitted.
33837 Orlando, Florida, FL33837, UNITED STATES
Tel: +44 (0) 1242 573233Fax: +44 (0) 845 890 2119
www.accessiblefloridavillas.freeserve.co.uk Email: [email protected]
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Autism on the Seas - USA
Autism on the Seas is dedicated to servicing the cruising needs of families and individuals faced
with autism. We provide Group Cruises for a vacationing experience that is unmatched, and an
Autism Cruise Package for those individuals and families who wish to cruise on any date or ship
of their choice.
Alumni Cruises, Autism on the Seas, 15 Oak Glen Drive, Shelton, Connecticut 06484, USA; tel:
+1 800 516 5247; email:[email protected]; website: www.autismontheseas.com
E) HOLIDAY CENTRES
ACTIVENTURE is a holiday and respite scheme for young people between 8 and 18 years old
with disabilities or special needs. Activity holidays are held at two purpose built outdoor activity
centres, Hindleap Warren in East Sussex and Amersham in Buckinghamshire.
address: Activenture, Wych Cross, Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5JS
telephone: 01342 828215
website: www.activenture.org
BENDRIGG TRUST welcomes children with special needs to come to the centre for the week or
weekend. There is no age limit and all ages and abilities can take part in the activities.
Programmes are 'tailor-made' for each group and a wide variety of activities can be incorporated,
including climbing, abseiling, canoeing, caving, sailing and orienteering. Bendrigg is open
throughout the year and a team of qualified instructors are employed to deliver the activities.
contact: Jo Winchester
address: Bendrigg Lodge, Old Hutton, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 0NR
telephone: 01539 723766
fax: 01539 722446
website: www.bendrigg.org.uk
It is always worth considering accommodation which is not specifically geared to the needs of
children with disabilities, but where the holidays cater to the needs of all children. Try contacting
them direct to discuss with them how each particular site might suit the needs of your family.
Some suggestions are:
Butlins
Accommodation - choose from a range of standard / silver rooms, or gold / deluxe apartments
Facilities - shops and services for all your holiday needs, a whole range of fantastic sports and
leisure facilities, including Splash Waterworld and lots of great places to eat and drink. Location choose from Skegness in Lincolnshire, Minehead in Somerset or Bognor Regis in Dorset.
www.butlinsonline.co.uk
Special Needs bookings or enquiries: 0845 070 4748
(Please ask for one of our Special Needs advisors)
Hoseasons Holiday Parks
Hoseasons offer Britain’s widest range of holiday accommodation with something to suite
everyone, from luxury caravans to magnificent timber lodges, some with hot tubs, cottages,
apartments and bungalows. Facilities are vast and range from action packed parks with indoor
44
pools, bars, restaurants, multi sports courts and entertainment, to quiet lodge retreats offering
Spa treatments and pamper packs for that something extra special.
The widest selection of holiday parks in the UK, with locations in England, Wales and Scotland.
From family holidays by the sea to idyllic lodges nestled in woodland.
www. hoseasons.co.uk
01502 502 588
Centre Parcs
Center Parcs has a terrific reputation for family holidays and breaks, as evidenced by the need to
often book a long time in advance. You can choose from four Forest Resorts – Elveden Forest in
Suffolk, Longleat in Wiltshire, Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, and Whinfell Forest on the
edge of the Lake District – all are set in hundreds of acres of grounds. Center Parcs Europe also
have 16 villages in Europe in Holland, Belgium, Germany and France.
www.centerparcs.co.uk
08448 267723
Weststar
Weststar Holidays have 4 award winning parks in Cornwall, Dorset and Hampshire. Whether you
stay for a week or a short break you can be sure of a very warm welcome. Accommodation - all
Parks offer a wide choice of fully equipped, well furnished Holiday Homes all designed for your
complete comfort and convenience. On all parks there’s always plenty to do with fantastic allweather facilities including heated indoor swimming pools (also outdoor at Mullion, Sandford and
Hayling), adventure playgrounds , Crazy caves and soft play areas.
www.weststarholidays.co.uk/ 0871 641 041
Calvert Trust Kielder
Northumbria
Holiday and activity centre designed for people with disabilities. Self-catering, full board or short
break holidays available for families, individuals or groups. Unaccompanied disabled people must
be aged 18 or over. Situated on the shores of Kielder Water, Europe's largest man-made lake, in
the heart of the Northumbrian countryside. Offer a wide range of activities, all accessible for
wheelchair users, including sailing, cruising, canoeing, abseiling, climbing, archery, riding and
pony driving. Other facilities include an indoor swimming/hydrotherapy pool, games room and
licensed bar. Outings arranged using centre's own adapted transport.
ENGLISH TOURISM COUNCIL 4 STAR CLASSIFICATION FOR CHALETS AND CATEGORY 1
ACCESSIBLE GRADING.
Special aids or equipment available: Electric bed hoists; adjustable beds; wheel-in showers; Closo-mat toilets; commodes; raised toilet seats; bed blocks; cot sides; alarm call system in rooms;
cots; highchairs; staff may be available to push wheelchairs at certain times. Hydrotherapy
available.
Kielder Water HEXHAM Northumberland NE48 1BS
Tel: 01434 250232 Fax: 01434 250015
Internet: www.calvert-trust.org.uk E-Mail: [email protected]
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Haven Caravanning Parks
Haven offers the perfect base for your family holiday or short break. Having time and fun together
is at the heart of every Haven family holiday. Our collection of 35 outstanding Parks provide
Holidays and Holiday Home Ownership throughout England, Scotland & Wales, offering the
freedom to enjoy superb facilities in a safe environment; to explore the region; and to spend
quality time together.
Holiday homes provide the best in family comfort – from luxurious ‘Gold’ caravans to the more
economical ‘Star’ range plus Half Board and Touring options available at selected Parks. Quote
Z_NAS2 when ringing them for your special discount through the National Autistic Society
(note – this holiday appears on the Newsletter of The National Autistic Society)
www.havenholidays.com 0871 230 1930
The Thomas Centre^.the autism-friendly holiday specialist in the UK
Westfield House, Covenham St Bartholomew, Louth, Lincolnshire LN11 0PB
Do you find holidays difficult for your family or your group? Perhaps you have a member of your
family or group that suffers from Autism, ADHD, Aspergers or other complex needs. Do you
worry so much about your holiday that you come away feeling more exhausted than when you
arrived? Perhaps you have a member of your family that has sensory impairment or suffers from
cerebral palsy and needs help in getting around, perhaps in a wheelchair? Why should those
who care for those with special needs not be able to enjoy five star facilities? (We are parents
ourselves and we like to enjoy good quality facilities).We believe that holidays are for the whole
family, for the whole group, not just those individuals with special needs. (After all, we spend most
of the year planning for that person in our lives with special needs and we could all do with a
break). The more that parents and carers can relax, the better able everyone will feel able to
return to the battles ahead.(Or put another way, if everyone has a good holiday then everyone
benefits). Our aim is to provide fully accessible holiday facilities to a 5 Star luxury standard, where
you can relax in a safe and non-judgmental environment, giving all a chance to re-charge their
batteries. Our hope is that holiday makers at the Thomas Centre will find the sense of space, the
peace and tranquillity, the safety and the privacy of our parkland to be a welcome release from
the claustrophobic nature of every day life. We also hope that this experience will contribute to a
real quality holiday experience for all your family or group.
Facilities include: accessible swimming pool, accessible woods suitable for wheelchairs, outside
play area including soft play area, trampoline and acres of parklands and indoor play barn
[email protected] www.thethomascentre.co.uk 01507 363463
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F) ORGANISATIONS FOR POSSIBLE HELP WITH FINANCE AND
INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS
The Family Holiday Association
The FHA is the only charity in the UK that specialises in helping providing holidays for families
and children in need. Since its beginning in 1975, the FHA has helped over 90,000 parents,
children and young people to have a holiday. This year they expect to help over 1,000 families
who otherwise would not have been able to have a holiday. Unfortunately, they will also have a
waiting list of over 800 families who they will be unable to help.
Tel: 020 7436 3304 www.fhaonline.org.uk www.FamilyHolidayAssociation.org.uk
Holiday Endeavour For Lone Parents: Help
Help is a registered charity, which not only provides low cost holiday accommodation for single
parent families, but also helps those with exceptional circumstances to pay for them.
Lone parent is described as anyone who is bringing up a child / children without help of a live in
partner.
57 Owston Road Caracroft Doncaster South Yorkshire DN6 8DA 01302 728 791
The Family Fund
The Family Fund may be able to help towards holiday costs when there is a child who is severely
disabled, aged under 16 years, in the family. Grants vary in size and can be used towards family
holidays with or without the disabled child.
P.O. Box 50, York YO1 2ZX. Tel: 0845 130 4542
www.familyfund.org.uk/newsite/default.asp
Pearson’s holiday Fund
Supplies funds for disadvantaged children from 4 - 17 years of age for holidays in the U.K. only.
Applications should be made through a social worker, doctor, health visitor or teacher.
PO Box 3017, South Croydon CR2 9PN Tel. (020) 8657 3053
www.pearsonsholidayfund.org
Mencap
Factsheets on financial help towards holiday costs:
www.askmencap.org.uk
A holiday resource list of information about holidays for people with learning difficulties
www.mencap.org.uk/download/holidaydocument.rtf
Rays of Sunshine
Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity exists to grant the wishes of terminally and seriously ill
children between the ages of 3-18 who live in the United Kingdom, including helping with holiday
finance.
www.raysofsunshine.org.uk
Enable Holidays
At Enable Holidays we believe travel for disabled people should involve less work and more
play.As the specialist tour operator for wheelchair-users, people with limited mobility, their families
and friends, we can help you find, plan and arrange an overseas holiday to suit your individual
needs.
www.enableholidays.com
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3H FUND (Help the Handicapped Holiday Fund)
3H FUND (Help the Handicapped Holiday Fund) organises holidays for physically disabled
people. Care is provided with two experienced leaders, a nurse and volunteer helpers. This in turn
gives the regular carer a period of respite.
address: 3H Fund, B2 Speldhurst Business Park, Langton Road, Speldhurst, Tunbridge Wells,
Kent, TN3 0AQ
telephone: 01892 860207
website: www.3hfund.org.uk
Insurance considerations
Holiday insurance when travelling with someone with a disability can sometimes be problematic
There are many different types of travel insurance available. You will need to decide what type of
cover you require and check thoroughly that the policy you choose suits your needs.
As well as the 'usual' types of cover, for example, flight delays and theft of belongings, there are
other things to check when choosing an insurance policy. These include:
•
cover for any medical costs that arise from your impairment - as many policies do not
cover claims arising from 'pre-existing medical conditions'
•
cover if an airline is unable to carry you for any reason, for example, a change of plane
type to one that is not accessible
It is advisable to take out travel insurance even if you are travelling within the UK. This is
especially important if you are taking special equipment such as wheelchairs or if you’re likely to
need medical attention, which may cut short your holiday.
It's important to declare your disability or illness when arranging insurance, even though standard
travel insurance doesn't cover any illness or health problem that existed or was diagnosed before
your holiday began.
The insurance company may ask for specific details, or your doctor may need to complete a form
stating that you are fit to travel. You may be asked to sign a form stating that you are not awaiting
treatment, for example.
If you need to take expensive disability equipment with you, make sure that it is insured for loss or
damage.
Mobility aids - including wheelchairs and scooters - are unlikely to be covered by standard travel
insurance policies. You may have to pay an extra premium. Sometimes your household insurance
may provide cover for these items.
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) aims to end the discrimination that many disabled people
face. Part 3 of the Act places duties on service providers, which includes insurance and travel
companies providing services within the UK.
Companies have a duty to ensure that, as a disabled customer, they do not treat you less
favourably than other customers, for a reason related to your disability, unless they can justify that
treatment. So for example, they must not unjustifiably refuse to provide a service to a disabled
person that they are prepared to offer other members of the public, nor must they provide the
service on worse terms or to a worse standard.
However, the law allows insurers to apply special conditions or premiums to disabled people in a
particular set of circumstances. For example they can charge a disabled person a higher premium
if they can show that there is a greater risk in insuring a disabled person than a non-disabled
person.
A free leaflet about holiday insurance is available from the Association of British Insurers:
ABI, 51 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HQ
48
Tel 020 7600 333
www.abi.org.uk
We offer a few suggestions, but it is certainly worth looking around at different insurance
companies. As
with the holiday destinations, we cannot
recommend any of the companies mentioned below.
www.allcleartravel.co.uk - Insurance for the disabled traveller
Customer Care Team on 0845 250 5201
www.youreable.com - Travel and insurance information for disabled people
www.travelbility.co.uk - Worldwide travel insurance for people with disabilities
Tel. 0845 338 1638
Epilepsy Action: New Anstey House, Gate Way Drive, Yeadon, Leeds LS19 7XY, tel: 0808 800
5050, fax: 0113 391 0300, email: [email protected], website: www.epilepsy.org.uk. Can
give general advice to people with epilepsy on holidays and has a reference copy of "A Travellers
Handbook for Persons with Epilepsy" prepared by the International Bureau for Epilepsy. The
Association has a special holiday insurance policy for people with epilepsy.
Free Spirit Travel Insurance: tel: 01483 255 887. Offers travel insurance for people with
disabilities and medical problems.
Leisurecare Insurance Services Limited: Century House, 100 High Street, Cricklade, Wilshire
SN6 6AA, tel: 01793 750150, fax: 01793 750661. Offers travel insurance for people with a
disability and pre-existing medical conditions.
Travelcare Limited: freephone: 0800 181 532, tel: 020 8295 1234, fax: 020 8295 1345, website:
www.travelcare.co.uk. Offers travel insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Also, offers motor and wheelchair insurance cover.
Travelbility: 14-16 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DX, www.travelbility.co.uk. 0845 338 1638.
Offers travel insurance to disabled and able-bodied people and their families, friends and carers.
Cover for mobility and disability equipment and replacement of essential medication is included.
49
G) USEFUL ORGANISATIONS
www.accessibletravel.co.uk - Helping the less mobile access the world
www.disabledtraveladvice.co.uk - Extensive advice on travel for the disabled
Access Travel (LANCS) LTD is a tour operator specialising in holidays abroad for wheelchair
users.
Access Travel (LANCS) Ltd., 6 The Hillock, Astley, Manchester, M29 7GW
telephone: 01942 888844
fax: 01942 891811
www.access-travel.co.uk
Assistance Travel Service arranges worldwide holidays for families or small groups with
disabled members.
Assistance Travel Service Ltd, ATS House, 1 Tank Lane, Purfleet, Essex, RM19 1TA
telephone: 01708 860514
mobile: 07810202429
fax: 01708 209316
www.assistedholidays.com
Diana’s Supported Holidays
Diana’s supported Holidays provides supported holidays with all flights, accommodation,
activities, trips and excursions included in a pre-planned package holiday accompanied by
professional support staff. The holidays are created especially for people with a learning disability
and those that require support.
Diana Saunders, Diana’s Supported Holidays, 109 Palatine Road, Blackpool FY1 4DN
Tel: 0844 800 9373:
[email protected] www.dianassupportedholidays.com
Holiday Care
Holiday and Travel information service for disabled people.
Tel 0845 124 9971 www.holidaycare.org.uk/default.asp
Radar
The Disability website offering advice on a whole range of issues, including an online version of "A
Guide for disabled people to holiday accommodation in Britain and Ireland".
Tel: 020 7250 3222 Email: [email protected] www.radar.org.uk
Break: Holidays And Respite Care for Children and Adults with Special Needs
Every year BREAK welcomes over a 1,000 children and adults with learning difficulties to coastal
holiday centres in Norfolk.
7a Church Street Sheringham Norfolk NR26 8QR Tel: 01263 823 170
www.break-charity.org/
Children’s Country Holiday Fund
Provides UK holidays for London Children in need and their families
42/43 Lower Marsh London SE1 7RG Tel: 020 7928 6522
www.childrensholidays.org.uk
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Camping For The Disabled,
Provides information and advice on camping and camp-sites in Britain and Europe. The booklet
"Camping for the Disabled in Great Britain" lists over 200 camp-sites which have facilities for
people with disabilities.
20 Burton Close, Dawley, Telford TF4 2RX Tel (01743) 761889 or (01743) 340 269
National Holiday Fund for Sick and Disabled Children
Provides holidays at selected worldwide venues for chronically or terminally ill children, and
temporarily or permanently physically disabled children, aged 8 - 18 years
1-2 Princess Parade, New Road, Dagenham RM10 9LS Tel 020 8595 9624
www.nhfcharity.co.uk/
When You Wish Upon A Star
Our aim is to grant the 'Wishes' of children suffering from a life threatening illness, from the age of
2 to 16.
When You Wish Upon A Star have holiday homes and caravans in Britain, Spain and Florida..
Futurist House, Valley Road, Basford, Nottingham NG5 1JE Tel (0115) 979 1720
www.whenyouwishuponastar.org.uk/holidays
Disabled Holiday Directory is an Internet based directory specialising in worldwide holidays for
the disabled and provides advice and information regarding holiday accommodation. The phone
line is open 9am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday.
address: Disabled Holiday Directory, Premier House, Manchester Road, Mossley, Lancs, OL5
9AA
telephone: 01457 837578
website: www.disabledholidaydirectory.co.uk
Contact a Family
Contact a Family is a UK-wide charity providing advice, information and support to the parents of
all disabled children - no matter what their disability or health condition.209-211 City Road,
London EC1V 1JN
Tel: 020 7608 8700 Fax: 020 7608 8701
Helpline 0808 808 3555 or Textphone 0808 808 3556 Freephone for parents and families (MonFri, 10am-4pm & Mon, 5.30-7.30pm)
e-mail: [email protected] http://www.cafamily.org.uk/
Allgohere (incorporating www.everybody.co.uk)
Holidays, hotels and airlines with helpful disability information and ratings where appropriate
www.allgohere.com
Away From It All is a holiday scheme aimed at helping families under stress who have not been
able to have a break for a long time and feel it would benefit their family life. Organised by the
Mothers’ Union, the holiday scheme can provide specially organised family weeks, caravan
holidays, stays at a family guest house, breaks at a holiday camp or days out. Peple can apply
directly for their family, but a doctor, social worker, headteacher or member of the clergy will need
to support the application. Basic information will need to be provided, such as date of the last
holiday and the reason for your family needing a break now. Contact the Mothers’ Union on 020
7222 5533 or email: [email protected]
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Motability have teamed up with Rough Guides to produce a guide of fascinating places to visit
in Britain which includes everything you need to know about accessibility, including tips on parking
and getting around. All the reviews have been written by writers with disabilities.
Accessible Britain by Rough Guides and Motability
Visit their website to order your copy
www.accessibleguide.co.uk
Camp Mohawk is a day centre for children with autistic spectrum disorders and other special
needs, situated in the woods near Wargrave, three miles from Henley-on-Thames. The camp has
a heated special needs swimming pool, picnic area, multi-sensory rooms, adventure playground
and a quiet room for videos. Contact CAMP MOHAWK or visit the website for opening times
throughout the year.
contact: Luke Jansen
address: Camp Mohawk, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8PU
telephone: 01189 404045
fax: 01189 402986
website: www.campmohawk.org.uk
RADAR (Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation) compiles regularly updated guides
including "Holidays in Britain and Ireland".
address: RADAR, Unit 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF
telephone: 020 7250 3222
textphone: 020 7250 4119
fax: 020 7250 0212
website: www.radar.org.uk
Tourism For All is the UK's central source of holiday and travel information and support for
people with disabilities. It provides information about all types of holidays for families, groups or
unaccompanied children and young adults. TFA does not arrange or book the holidays, but
supplies the contact information and can reserve certain accessible hotel chains at discounted
rates.
address: Tourism For All c/o Vitalise, Shap Road, Kendall, Cumbria, LA9 6NZ
telephone: 0845 124 9971
textphone: 0845 124 9976
fax: 01539 735 567
website: www.tourismforall.org.uk
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H) SOME POINTS ABOUT FLYING
If you are taking a holiday to which involves a flight, there are certain considerations which are
common to all airlines.
Obviously, you must check with the relevant airline to establish exactly how your needs can be
met ; if you have access to the internet, their policies and guidelines are usually easy to access
but the airline still requires that you contact them.
Here we summarise the policies of just a few airlines, taken from their websites, but please bear
in mind that this information may outdate quite quickly and you must always check yourself
with the specific airline at the time of booking.
http://www.britishairways.com/travel/disabilityassistanceinfo/public/en_gb
Before you travel
If you would like assistance please let us know when you make your booking, or least 48 hours
before you travel. This is so we can notify the airport authority or service provider of any
assistance you might need, so we can provide you with the best possible service.
You can reserve your seat, for free, at any time after your booking is made.
Travelling with your own wheelchair
You can bring an unlimited number of wheelchairs or mobility aids in addition to your free
baggage allowance.
At most airports, you’ll be able to can stay in your own wheelchair until to reach the departure
gate.
We can store one collapsible manual wheelchair in the cabin, where space is available on-board.
If you’d like to do this, just let us know when you arrive at the airport.
To make sure we are able to take you to your seat safely and securely please arrive at the
departure gate in good time.
It is important that we have as much information about your wheelchair as possible 48 hours
before you travel, to enable us to safely and securely load your wheelchair onto the aircraft.
Electric wheelchairs & mobility aids
Preparing electric mobility aids for travel
Some wheelchairs and mobility aids contain ‘non-spillable’ (gel electrolyte), ‘spillable’ (wet) or
Lithium batteries. Whilst spillable batteries are becoming less common, all types can be
transported providing certain conditions are met.
To assist with the safe stowage of your wheelchair, please provide us with sufficient information at
least 48 hours before you travel. The type of wheelchair you have will determine how we are able
to load your wheelchair on to the aircraft.
Regardless of the type of battery your mobility aid or wheelchair uses, we will need the following
information 48 hours before you travel:
o Number of batteries installed
o Type of battery
o TARE (un-laden) weight
o Dimensions (i.e. length x width x height)
o Instructions for preventing inadvertent operation (see below)
Mobility aids with dry cell or Lithium batteries
To protect the wheelchair/mobility aid from inadvertent activation, please remove the key,
deactivate using the joystick or deactivate using an isolation switch or buttons, or other isolation
mechanism (such as Neutrik plug).
53
Mobility aids with spillable wet cell batteries
To protect the wheelchair/mobility aid from inadvertent operation, please remove the key,
deactivate using the joystick or deactivate using an isolation switch or buttons, or other isolation
mechanism (such as Neutrik plug).
In the unlikely event that the wheelchair cannot be stowed in the upright position in the hold,
special measures will need to be taken to ensure safe carriage – this will include the removal of
the battery and the protection of the battery terminals against short circuit.
To ensure safe carriage of your wheelchair/mobility aid it would be very helpful if you brought the
manufacturers instructions (re: disconnection of batteries) with you to the airport.
Please note that you cannot travel with wet-cell batteries for any purpose other than for powering
wheelchairs.
At the airport
You can choose whether to give us your wheelchair when you check in or use it until you reach
the departure gate. If you choose to surrender your wheelchair at check-in, an airport wheelchair
can be provided to assist you to the departure gate.
You are welcome to board the aircraft at your leisure; however if you would like to, you will be
able to board first. A pre-boarding announcement will be made at the departure gate.
Baggage allowances
In the event of loss or damage, any mobility aids or any equipment relating to your disability,
placed into your luggage and checked in for travel in the hold are not covered for anything more
than the maximum liability under the Montreal Convention. Please make sure you have suitable
travel insurance for any equipment you are travelling with.
Safety assistants (companions)
If you are unable to do any of the following:
o lift yourself
o reach an emergency exit unaided
o communicate with the crew on safety matters
o unfasten a seat belt
o retrieve and fit a life jacket
o fit an oxygen mask
You will need to travel with a safety assistant to help you do this.
Onboard
All our aircraft have a number of seats with moveable armrests for ease of access. Unfortunately,
we will not be able to seat you in emergency exit rows due to safety regulations.
All our aircraft have wheelchairs to assist you on-board. Please ask our cabin crew if you would
like help with stowing of hand luggage, moving between your seat and the toilet and help with
meals by opening. Our cabin crew are unable to assist you with personal care during your flight.
At your destination
If your wheelchair has been stowed in the hold, we'll make every effort to return your wheelchair
to you as close to the aircraft door as possible. If it is not possible to bring your wheelchair to the
door for safety reasons, we will make sure there is a wheelchair available to assist you to the
baggage reclaim area.
54
http://www.easyjet.com/en/book/index.asp - type disabled into the box labelled “search
easyJet.com” (bottom left hand corner at the time of preparing this booklet.)
Passengers' folding wheelchairs will be carried free of charge in addition to their normal baggage
allowance. Wheelchairs facilities can be provided at check-in for passengers who are completely
immobile and cannot walk unaided, or are unable to climb the aircraft steps, or cannot walk long
distances.
Wheelchairs and mobility aids weighing more than 60kgs (excluding battery) cannot be accepted
for travel. Only wheelchairs and mobility aids weighing 60kgs or less (excluding battery) can be
accepted.
easyJet would like to ask you to make arrangements for wheelchair facilities online a minimum of
48 hours prior to the scheduled departure of your flight. To do this please go to the home page of
www.easyjet.com, click on "Manage bookings" at the top of the screen and enter your details.
Select “view” your booking reference and scroll down to “Specific needs and access
requirements”. There will be a link provided that reads “adding a request”, please click on this link.
To notify us of a specific need, an access requirement or request assistance, please select the
relevant passenger name, their requirement, and then click “Add request”. If multiple passengers
have specific requirements, repeat the process for each. If you add a request in error, select the
relevant passenger name and click “Remove request”. Click 'Done' to return to your booking.
We appreciate that there are some passengers who require assistance. After prior arrangement
with our check-in and gate staff we will do our best to assist wherever possible by arranging for
passengers with reduced mobility to board before the main boarding groups.
The airline requires a minimum of 48 hours notice to arrange assistance. It may not be possible to
honour requests received less than 48 hours prior to the scheduled time of departure of a flight,
as the airline may not be able to accommodate your needs. This could result in passengers being
unable to travel. However, where possible, easyJet will endeavour to provide passengers with
assistance when boarding and disembarking flights.
http://www.flybe.com/en/assistance/
We are happy to give appropriate advice and arrange for help where needed. If you are registered
disabled, we will not charge you for these services.
If you have requested special assistance we recommend that you check in for your flight no later
than 60 minutes prior to departure. If you, or someone travelling with you, requires help during the
flight or at the airport, please let us know at least 48 hours beforehand by emailing us at
[email protected] or informing your call centre agent. The link to a Flybe Mobility Aid
request form can be found on the above website
If you or a member of your party use a wheelchair or have limited mobility, we can offer
assistance to the bottom or top of the aircraft steps, or to the aircraft seat as required.
On arrival at the airport, we ask that you make yourself known to airport staff. Passenger
Assistance Points are signposted throughout the airport and are generally located within the car
parks, taxi rank and bus stops, as well as within the departure area of the terminal. Alternatively,
55
you can make our check-in staff aware of your requirements and they will contact the
assistance company on your behalf or direct you to the designated area. Information regarding
Passenger Assistance Points can be obtained by contacting the airport information line or by
viewing their website.
We can carry both manual and electrically operated wheelchairs in the aircraft's hold provided
•
•
•
electrically operated wheelchairs are powered using a 'gell' or 'dry cell' battery (we can not
carry wheelchairs that use 'wet cell' batteries for safety reasons)
you allow us to isolate the wheelchair's batteries before loading onto the aircraft,
passengers may be required to be present at this time
where the wheelchair is none-collapsible, you provide us with the dimensions (height,
width, depth) through the Customer Call Centre
Additionally and for safety reasons, we are only permitted to carry a proportionate number of
passengers who have restricted mobility per aircraft type. For this reason you must email
[email protected] or inform your call centre agent to ensure you receive the best
possible care.
http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/gb/en/travel-information/special-assistance.html
All Virgin Atlantic aircraft have an onboard wheelchair specially designed to fit the aircraft aisles
and transport passengers to and from their seats before, during and after flights.
We ensure priority boarding for passengers requiring assistance and the vast majority of our seats
are designed with lifting armrests to enable a simple transfer between wheelchair and seat.
You will be transferred to this wheelchair as you enter the plane and your own chair will be stored
during the flight. Bulkhead seats may offer more room and if you require one of these for medical
reasons please contact our Special Assistance Department before your flight.
Burnett Body Supports are available on our aircraft or you can book our very latest support
system "The Travel Chair". Please contact our Special Assistance Department for a suitability
assessment and to check availability.
Manual wheelchairs
Collapsible manual wheelchairs may be carried within the cabin on any aircraft that has dedicated
storage space.
If there isn’t storage space and your manual wheelchair needs to go in the hold, you can check it
in either at the check in desks or the departure gate. Detachable items such as seat cushions and
footrests will be checked in and loaded with the wheelchair.
We know how crucial these items are and take great care of them, so any extra information you
give our staff to ensure proper handling and loading will be much appreciated.
Disabled seating
To discuss the seats that could be best for you, give our Special Assistance team a call on 0844
412 4455 and they’ll do their best to give you the seat you need.
To ask for support seating to be made available on your flight (or to ask about bringing your own
support) give our Special Assistance team a call on 0844 412 4455.
Medication
Your health and peace of mind are important to us, so there’s no problem with bringing the
medication you need onboard.
56
However, when bringing medication onto your flight we do ask that you follow the relevant
guidelines below.
What we recommend
To ensure a smooth journey, please take note of the following tips with regard to your medication:
Bring sufficient medication for your flight into the cabin, plus two or three days just in case. The
rest should be packed in the hold, where the temperature is maintained between four and five
degrees centigrade.
Make sure you have a letter from your medical practitioner confirming the type of medication
(including the generic drug name), with prescribed doses, what the medication is for and any
other medical items required, such as syringes or EpiPens.
The medication should be in its original packaging, pharmaceutically labelled to clearly identify it
as being prescribed for and belonging to you.
Carry a repeat prescription so your medication can be replaced in event of loss, damage or
having insufficient supplies.
Some medication may contain ingredients that are illegal in some countries – it’s a good idea to
check with the embassy at your destination.
Keeping your medication cold
The onboard fridge cannot be used to keep medication cold. However, if you bring a cool bag the
crew will be happy to top it up with ice.
Liquid medication
Increased security at UK airports affects the amount of liquid medication that passengers can take
in hand baggage. For the latest airport security advice on carrying liquid medication, please check
your airport’s website or The Department of Transport. There’s also more information on liquids
on our own liquid restrictions page.
http://www.ryanair.com/site/EN/faqs.php?sect=spn
For safety reasons Ryanair can carry only a maximum of four passengers per flight who have
either reduced mobility, or are blind/vision impaired travelling with a guide dog or alone or require
special assistance at the airport. Such passengers (including in the case of those who are
blind/vision impaired if travelling with a sighted companion) should notify Ryanair of their
condition/requirements on the day of booking via your local Ryanair call centre. Failure to prebook
may result in the service being unavailable on your arrival at the airport and your being refused
carriage.
Due to the above safety requirements special assistance passengers are required to check-in at
the airport (any airport check-in fee paid on booking will be refunded at the time that the special
services are booked).
Passengers who have pre-advised their condition should arrive at the boarding gate at least 30
minutes prior to the flight departure. They will be boarded after general boarding has been
completed and seats will be reserved onboard.
At the majority of airports you will be permitted to travel to the steps of the aircraft in your own
wheelchair, however, some airports such at Girona in Spain do not permit passenger travelling
with a battery operated wheelchair to take their own chair to the aircraft and as such it must be
checked in and the passenger will be transported to .the boarding gate via an airport wheelchair.
Passengers travelling with mobility equipment must check-in at the airport and not online. (Any
airport check-in fee paid on booking will be refunded at the time that the special services are
booked). Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walking frames are carried free of charge.
Assistance is free of charge. Passengers with reduced mobility should advise Ryanair of their
condition and requirements on the day of booking. Failure to do so may result in the service being
unavailable on your arrival to the airport and you being refused carriage.
57
Ryanair operate a free seating policy therefore seats cannot be pre-booked. However,
passengers with reduced mobility, blind/visual impairment or special assistance requirements who
have pre-advised their condition will be boarded after general boarding is completed and seats
will be reserved onboard. Safety regulations prohibit any passenger with special needs, reduced
mobility or vision impairment from being seated at emergency exit seats.
----****----

booklet containing information on many types of

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