TOURISM bosses in York have teamed up with a specialist company to help make the city more accessible to disabled visitors and holidaymakers.

As part of this year's Disability Awareness Day, which took place on Sunday, July 16, Visit York has launched a new initiative with Be Independent, York’s provider of equipment and 24-hour response service, and hoteliers, self-catering and B&B owners.

Be Independent can supply specialist packages of equipment - like rails for bathrooms or beds, or wheelchairs - to accommodation in the city, which means that people who need personal equipment can still enjoy a short-break, knowing it will be provided.

The scheme works by guests pre-ordering their equipment so it is installed for their arrival at their accommodation.

Heather Barden, Be Independent’s chief executive, said: “This is a great opportunity for people to enjoy a short-break in York safe in the knowledge the equipment they rely on at home will be installed in their accommodation ahead of their arrival.

"None of our equipment requires drilling or screwing to the walls or furniture, so can be installed and removed without any marks or damage to the property. This means that we can make any accommodation suitable for people with equipment needs.”

There are around 11.9 million disabled people in the UK, according to the Papworth Trust, and 19 per cent of people in the UK have a disability. More than 90 per cent of York’s visitors come from other parts of the UK.

Sally Greenaway, Head of Visit York, added: “York has a range of services available for those in need of extra support during their visit as well as an excellent range of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering options to accommodate guests with access and equipment needs.

"We need to work together with partners and businesses to help make our city more accessible, we hope this new partnership will be popular and we look forward to welcoming new visitors to enjoy our beautiful city."

Be Independent can provide a range of equipment including: raised toilet seats, toilet frames, perching stools, shower boards, mobile hoists, Easy Fit bed rails, and wheelchairs.

For more information about York’s Accessible Accommodation scheme contact Be Independent on 01904 645000 or visit beindependent.org.