Why is an access statement important?

An access statement helps people plan ahead and decide if they can visit a business with confidence. Without clear information, many people assume they cannot access a place and may choose not to visit at all.

What should be included in an access statement?

An access statement should include practical information such as parking options, step-free access, door widths, toilets, seating, lighting, noise levels, and how to ask for help. It should be honest, clear and based on real conditions at the venue.

Where should an access statement be published?

An access statement should be easy to find on a business website, ideally linked from the main navigation or accessibility section. It should be available before someone visits so they can make an informed decision.

Can an access statement help a business?

Yes. An access statement helps businesses reach more customers by making information clear and accessible. It builds trust, reduces uncertainty and shows that a business understands different access needs.

Our Bench | What is an Access Statement

Q: What is an access statement?

An access statement is a document or web page that explains how people can access a business, venue or service before they visit. It provides clear information about things like parking, entrances, steps, toilets and facilities, helping people decide if they can access what is on offer.

Q: Do businesses in the UK have to have an access statement?

No, there is no legal requirement to have an access statement in the UK. However, under the Equality Act 2010, businesses must make reasonable adjustments and not put disabled people at a substantial disadvantage. Providing an access statement is widely considered best practice.

What is an Access Statement?

An access statement (sometimes known as Universal Access ) contains crucial information for anyone visiting your business about how to access it before they arrive. It is really important in hospitality, or if you have a venue (shop, business premises, tourist attraction, office), as it helps set expectations and enables potential customers to decide if they can access what you offer. It is not about buildings, it is about communication and sharing information that you already have.

Do businesses in the UK have to have an access statement?

The short answer is no, there isn’t a single legal requirement to have an access statement, but it is a strong expectation and widely accepted as best practice. With around 1 in 4 people in the UK living with a disability, not having an access statement could exclude at least a quarter of your potential customers, and when you include their families, that number grows significantly.

What the law says

Under the Equality Act 2010:

Businesses must make “reasonable adjustments” for disabled people
You must not put disabled people at a substantial disadvantage

But what your potential customer says

"I would rather find the information from a good website than having to laboriously ring every venue. Having an access statement means I am not disadvantaged as I can decide if it is possible with the information given."

"I find that too little information means I assume I can't access something, and unless I really need to I feel uncomfortable phoning to ask. So I'm not sure if there is such a thing as too much information. Bullet points of what you have will do."

But where do I start?

These are the questions I often get asked:

I don't know what is needed
I don't know what people are looking for
We are an old building, access is hard
I don't know where to start
People who need access could just ring and ask

Start with what people want to know

What is your business? Describe what you offer.
Do you have accessible parking, or where is the nearest parking?
What is the ground surface? Gravel, tarmac, potential trip hazards?
Are there steps? If so how many? Is there a handrail? Is there a step-free route?
Are there any door thresholds and how high are they? Is there a ramp available?
How wide are the doors? Are they easy to open? Is help available?
Is there a way to let someone know you need help (doorbell, phone, staff)?
Is there somewhere to sit down?
Do you have a toilet? Is it accessible? Where is the nearest alternative if not?
Are toilets clearly signposted?
Can people move around comfortably without feeling awkward?
Are there strong smells or sensory challenges?
Is there a quieter time of day to visit?
Are staff confident answering access questions?
If you have a lift, how would you evacuate someone if it cannot be used?
Are there calm or low sensory spaces?
Are tables suitable for wheelchair users? Can I fit my knees under the table?
Do you offer home visits?
Are hearing loops available?
How can someone ask questions (email, text, phone)?

Useful Examples of Local Businessess with great access guides

This is a great example of a local business whom didn't need to change anything - but whom just added information on their web site as a result of a conversation with us. HWB Accountants - Access and Inclusion.
Paulton's Park - our nearest theme park, showcases just how complex an accessible guide can be with a 16 page booklet, detailed information on every ride and more. A great example of sharing accesss information for everyone.

Links to more examples

Here is an access statement for a family friendly cafe.
This is a list of a variety of businesses with access statements, here you may find ideas or a business similar to your own.
This is the Visit Wales guide to create which they recommend everyone creates.

Where to start

Start with a simple draft of an access statement. Use the questions above, include photos if you can, and be honest. Show your space, your access, and explain what you can offer. Let people know who they can contact if they have questions.

Or contact us and we would be happy to help.

Last updated: April 2026