Travel Barriers For Disabled Tourists

23 July 2014, 06:00

PhD student David Fraser from Newquay, wants people to tell him about any difficulties they've had at tourist destinations, both at home and abroad.

As a child, David suffered an accident leaving him with mobility problems and brain damage.

He's travelled to a number of countries and has done things he was told he'd never be capable of.

As a PhD student at Plymouth University, David wants to gather a range of opinions, both good and bad, to paint a picture of how disabled tourists are treated at home and abroad.

He hopes to use his findings to influence providers and policy makers, making them aware of examples of good practice and where he believes improvements are needed.

He tells Heart he'll give his research to people like Visit England, Visit Cornwall, the EU and even the United Nations, so changes can be made to benefit everyone.

He says "Anyone who travels has perceptions of the risks to their safety, but this is exacerbated for disabled tourists who can feel more vulnerable. Disabled tourists can face barriers of a physical or social nature.

"Many attractions and venues and public transport providers have taken positive steps to counter this, but for people with disabilities to feel comfortable about travelling, at home and abroad, a lot more work is needed".

To take part anonymously in David's research, fill out the questionnaire on his website, where you will also be able to read more about his travels and experiences.