Hidelow Cottages – case study
Improving the accessibility of their accommodation has really paid off for the owners of Hidelow cottages in Worcester. A large percentage of guests who stay at the cottages are disabled and the high level of accessibility ensures that the cottages are fully booked throughout the year. Owner, Stuart Diplock, says, “People who visit us generally come back again which is great for business but makes it difficult for us to meet the high demand.”
Adjustments that meet the needs of disabled guests have been considered from the moment the guests book their stay to when they leave. The Hidelow cottages website has been designed to be accessible to people with a range of impairments – providing a booking facility over the internet can really support people with hearing and communication impairments.
When disabled guests arrive they are able to park next to their cottage. There is also level access leading to the entrance of the cottage for wheelchair users.
All the outside areas surrounding the cottages have level access with concrete paths to help guests with mobility impairments move around easily.
Careful consideration has been given to the interior of the cottages by fitting ramps throughout and the windows, tables, plugs and kitchen equipment have all been fitted are at a suitable height for wheelchair users. The wet room style bathroom means there is no shower tray to prevent wheelchair users accessing the shower. Grab rails and handles have also been fitted for support.
The cottages have been decorated with the needs of guests with a visual impairment in mind. The walls are painted white with contrasting colours used for the linen, towels, curtains and carpets. This careful use of colours allows these guests to see items more clearly.
Meeting the needs of disabled guests is extremely important to the owners of Hidelow cottages. They have developed a relationship with a local care service provider so guests who require additional support can have access to personal assistants.