7. Inclusion & All Accessibility Expert Roles and Skills

SPONSORS: VIAMOON CONSULTANCY & CAREADISE

Where Miracles Happen

This course module explores the diverse roles and essential skills of an Accessibility Expert, focusing on how they can contribute to a more inclusive tourism industry. It examines how these experts can apply their skills across the tourism value chain, whether as employees, consultants, or representatives of tourism organizations and local institutions. The module also emphasizes the importance of understanding national legislation and procedures relevant to each participating country.

Furthermore, this module provides guidance on effectively addressing the needs of tourists with diverse access requirements, including those with disabilities. It covers developing strategic plans for business owners, project planners, and decision-makers, as well as providing targeted advice on specific access issues.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

1. Define the Role: Understand the multifaceted role of an Accessibility Expert within a tourism enterprise and the broader tourism sector.

2. Promote Awareness: Effectively raise awareness about Accessible and Inclusive Tourism among tourism stakeholders (business owners, managers, workers, clients, etc.), facilitating communication between supply (businesses) and demand (tourists with specific access requirements).

3. Conduct Assessments and Advise: Apply diagnostic instruments, develop actionable plans, and provide expert advice to business owners and managers on improving accessibility.

4. Apply Skills in Diverse Contexts: Confidently apply your skills within various tourism settings, such as HORECA establishments, museums and cultural attractions, transportation providers, tour agencies, and diverse tourism activity providers, whether as an employee or an independent consultant.

Main Course Content:

• The Accessibility Expert’s Role in the Tourism Value Chain: Understanding how accessibility expertise can enhance each stage of the tourism experience, from planning and booking to on-site experiences and post-trip feedback.

• Developing Entrepreneurial and Advisory Skills: Cultivating essential skills for success as an Accessibility Expert, including communication, problem-solving, project management, and client relationship management. This will also cover business acumen for those working as consultants.

• The Accessibility Expert in Different Contexts: Practical application of skills within various tourism sectors:

  • HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes): Addressing accessibility in accommodation, dining, and other related services.
  • Museums/Culture: Ensuring accessible exhibits, wayfinding, and educational programs.
  • Transport: Evaluating and improving the accessibility of transportation options, including public transport, taxis, and tour buses.
  • Tour Agencies: Designing and delivering accessible tours and itineraries.
  • Tourism Activities: Adapting activities to be inclusive and accessible to all participants.

• Local Legislation and Procedures: In-depth exploration of national and local laws, regulations, and best practices related to accessibility in tourism for each relevant region.

• Project/Service Definition and Implementation: A structured approach to improving accessibility, including:

  • Diagnostic Assessment: Utilizing tools like Observation Charts and the Pantou – Accessible Tourism Directory to identify existing accessibility features and barriers.
  • Developing an Action Plan: Creating a comprehensive plan using tools like SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis and PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycles to address identified gaps and prioritize improvements.
  • Implementation: Putting the action plan into practice, monitoring progress, and evaluating results.