insideKENT Magazine Issue 34 - January 2015

NEWS MAKING KENT ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL Visit Kent has joined forces with VisitEngland to showcase the county as a premier destination for disabled visitors. Visit Kent is one of a number of destinations forming part of VisitEngland’s Access for All project, part-funded by the European Commission. VisitEngland is partnering with seven destinations across the country to promote the areas to visitors with access needs, and to increase visitors’ confidence in England as access-friendly for short breaks. Recent research by VisitEngland shows the overnight accessible tourism market is now worth £3 billion to the country’s economy, with day visits bringing the figure up to £12.4 billion. The new project aims to promote England as a leading destination for accessible tourism, and to encourage more people with access needs to take a short break here. Visit Kent’s activity, which is also part funded by Kent County Council, will focus on promoting Kent’s coastline to disabled visitors, as well as the county’s numerous access-friendly attractions, castles and gardens. The organisation will work with eight business in Thanet to improve or expand their existing accessibility products and services, and to increase awareness of the importance of accessible tourism. The project, which will run from October 2014 until March 2016, will be funded by a ¤125,000 grant from the European Commission. Chief executive of Visit Kent, Sandra Matthews-Marsh MBE, said: “It is vital that no one feels excluded from enjoying the wealth of experiences Kent has to offer, particularly outdoors adventures along our stunning coastline. James Berresford, chief executive of VisitEngland, said: “As the national tourist board, we are committed to ensuring England is a destination that offers a warm welcome to all visitors. The Access for All project is a fantastic opportunity to continue to build England’ reputation as a leader in accessible s tourism, and help grow this important and valuable market, now worth £3 billion to England’s economy.” “Kent is open to everyone, and it is our pleasure to be part of a project that will enhance the visitor experience for those with access needs, and inspire confidence in our tourism businesses and services.” www.visitkent.co.uk www.visitengland.com 15

insideKENT Magazine Issue 34 - January 2015 | Page 15