Tourism and hospitality businesses across Wales will be able to apply for funding to improve accessibility under a new Visit Wales scheme designed to make visitor attractions, hotels and other venues more welcoming.
The new initiative, which is called Croeso i Bawb, which translates as ‘Welcome to Everyone’, will provide capital funding for projects that remove physical barriers and create more inclusive visitor experiences.
Developed by Visit Wales in partnership with Welsh accessibility charity PIWS, the scheme aims to encourage businesses to go beyond their legal obligations by investing in practical improvements that make it easier for people with a wide range of access needs to enjoy holidays and days out.
Carey-Evans, from PIWS, said: ‘At PIWS, we are pleased to contribute our lived experience expertise to support the development of this scheme. The most effective accessibility improvements come from listening to disabled people and using their insight to create innovative, inclusive environments.Accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it is a strategic investment.
‘By investing in accessible premises and facilities, tourism businesses can enhance customer satisfaction, support and retain staff, attract new markets, and generate a measurable return on investment, while helping to make Wales a truly welcoming destination for everyone.’
Funding will be available for capital projects. These projects must improve access to tourism and hospitality facilities. The aim is to make tourism in Wales welcoming for everyone.
The move comes as figures highlight the growing importance of accessible tourism to the Welsh economy. Disabled visitors and those travelling with them account for around one in four visitors to Wales, contributing more than £1.1 billion in visitor spending during 2024.
Despite that, many people still face barriers when planning trips. According to Visit Wales, 83% of disabled people have chosen not to visit a business because it appeared inaccessible or unwelcoming. Around a quarter of overnight holidays in Wales also include someone with an impairment or access requirement.
The scheme recognises that accessibility extends beyond wheelchair access. It includes the needs of people with visual or hearing impairments, neurodiverse visitors, those with sensory processing differences, older people, families with young children and people recovering from illness or injury.
Businesses will be encouraged to consider accessibility throughout the entire visitor journey, from finding information online and making a booking through to arriving at a venue, enjoying the experience and returning home.
Funding will support a wide range of capital projects. These could include creating accessible bedrooms and bathrooms, installing platform or stair lifts, widening doorways, improving step-free access and upgrading reception areas.
Other eligible improvements include enhanced hearing support systems, Changing Places toilets, tactile and high-contrast signage, accessible outdoor seating and viewing areas, quieter sensory-friendly spaces, improved visitor information points and adaptations that allow more people to take part in leisure activities and attractions.
The Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, Adam Price, said: ‘A quarter of all visitors to Wales are disabled; if Wales says ‘croeso’ to the world, that word cannot come with small print – the welcome to Wales must be real for everyone.
‘It must hold true for disabled visitors, neurodivergent visitors and people with hidden conditions and barriers. That’s why we are launching Croeso i Bawb, to help tourism and hospitality businesses open their doors wider still.
‘Accessibility is good business, but, more than that, it is simply what ‘hospitality’ means.’
Photo: Neil Thomas
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