How to make your Universal Access (UA/special needs) guests’ stay more comfortable
It is understood that in general, up to 20% of a population can be ‘disabled’.
This covers someone with a hearing or visual disability right up to someone who makes full time use of a wheelchair.
The following (inexpensive and easy to do) tips are recommended to make that person’s stay a little more comfortable. Many of these suggestions can be implemented in a “regular” guest room.
It is suggested that a UA pack/kit is prepared, stored and replenished after use.
UA pack/kit
- Consider the availability of inter leading rooms if the guest is travelling with a carer.
- Draw up a checklist for each stay to determine the nature of the disability and if assistance is required. If so, what assistance?
- Ensure that all staff are aware of the guests’ needs, especially in the case of an emergency.
- Meet and greet – is parking available? Does the guest need assistance with luggage? Have you provided the name of a contact person/phone number for the duration of their stay?
- Remove excess furniture from the room if requested. Is there sufficient space for the guest to transfer from a wheelchair on to the bed? Does a wheelchair fit under the table/desk?
- Offer to relocate items on the desk to a bedside table or supply a duplicate set. Tissues? Pen and paper? Bottle of water? Compendium? Room service menu?
- Provide appropriate sized toiletries in suitable packaging (large size, pump action bottles are easier to manage than individual sachets or small bottles with lids). Are these accessible? Wall mounted for easy use?
- Provide clothing and towel hooks/rails at a convenient height. Would a fold up clothes horse be a better option?
- Ensure a full length mirror is available and accessible from a wheelchair. Is the hairdryer conveniently placed for use at the mirror? Can power points be easily accessed?
- Install a second set of brackets in the wardrobe at wheelchair height. The clothing rail can be moved lower for the use of a guest in a wheelchair.
- Install a peephole at wheelchair height.
- Provide the use of a walking stick, walker, or plastic chair (to be used in a regular shower).
- Supply a mobile, wedge shaped mat to cover the lip of the door frame. Is this required on the deck? Balcony?
- Offer to punch a hole in the key card and attach this to a lanyard for guests with coordination difficulties.
For more information on the Differently-Abled Awareness Campaign contact Rita van Rensburg/Hardaker 082 5602 606 or email.
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