A new network of ‘Accessibility Champions’ is being created across Glasgow’s hotels to help welcome para-athletes and spectators at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The pilot programme, led by VisitScotland in partnership with Access and Inclusion UK, is supporting a group of hotels across the city to strengthen their accessibility provision, improve access information and enhance customer service ahead of the event – which kicks off tomorrow [THURS].  The initiative will help to embed accessibility best practice and create a lasting legacy for the city, with the opportunity to extend the programme to other businesses.

Through the Glasgow Hotel Programme: Creating Accessibility Champions, participating hotels – including those hosting Glasgow 2026 para-athletes - are taking part in training and supported to embed accessibility into day-to-day operations.

At the heart of the initiative are trained staff within each business who lead on inclusive practice and help ensure accessibility is considered at every stage of the visitor experience.

It combines online learning, in-person training and tailored support from a specialist consultant. Participants are building practical skills and confidence, while improving how they communicate with visitors. They are also supported to carry out accessibility reviews, identify barriers and develop realistic, prioritised improvement plans aligned to their individual business.

It has attracted strong engagement from across Glasgow’s hotel sector, with thanks to Destination Glasgow raising awareness of the programme. Participants come from 8 hotels spanning front-of-house, management and HR roles. Many are motivated by personal and professional experience, alongside a shared ambition to create more inclusive spaces.

A key focus is improving accessibility information. Research shows that the majority of disabled travellers look for detailed, reliable information before booking, making it a critical factor in destination choice and visitor confidence.

Businesses report common challenges including limited staff training, building constraints, and identifying the most effective improvements within available budgets – highlighting the need for practical, tailored support.

This reflects the growing importance of accessible tourism to Scotland’s visitor economy. With one in four people in the UK living with a disability, and accessible tourism already representing a significant and growing market, supporting businesses to improve their offer is key to future growth.

Marina DiDuca, VisitScotland Inclusive Tourism Manager, said: “Glasgow is already recognised as a welcoming and inclusive city, and this programme is about building on that ahead of the Commonwealth Games and helps to create a lasting legacy of accessibility best practice.

“By partnering with Access and Inclusion UK, we recognise the challenges hotels face in sharing accessibility information, particularly where they have limited control over their websites. This programme focuses on developing ‘Accessibility Champions’ to drive practical improvements, while exploring ways to support clearer communication over time.

“Importantly, this is about long-term impact. Creating Accessibility Champions within businesses will help ensure inclusion becomes part of everyday practice, benefiting visitors, communities, and the wider visitor economy.”

Laura-Jane McClenaghan, Commercial Director and DEI Champion at Hilton Glasgow, said: “Being part of this programme has been incredibly meaningful. As both an Accessibility Champion for Hilton Glasgow and a mum to a child with a disability, I know first-hand how important it is for travel to feel welcoming, informed, and stress-free.

“The training has helped us make practical improvements across the hotel, and we’re proud to play our part in ensuring every guest – including Commonwealth games families with all kinds of accessibility needs – feel truly supported when they stay with us, all while embracing the Glasgow spirit.”

Kristina Papaiova, Residence Manager at Fraser Suites Glasgow, said: “Creating meaningful and inclusive experiences is at the heart of everything we do.

“Taking part in the programme gave us the opportunity to proactively review our guest journey and better understand how we can support people with a wide range of access needs. It reinforced that simple, thoughtful changes can make a significant difference, from improving accessibility information online and enhancing our facilities to introducing sensory-friendly amenities and further staff training.

“Being an Accessibility Champion means removing barriers and ensuring every guest feels welcome, included and able to enjoy their stay with confidence. With Glasgow preparing to welcome visitors from around the world for the Commonwealth Games in 2026, it is more important than ever that the city showcases not only its rich culture and hospitality, but also its commitment to providing accessible experiences for all.”

Carrie-Ann Lightley, accessible travel advocate and writer, said: “As a disabled traveller, I know accessibility is about the whole experience, from finding clear and accurate information before booking, to arriving with confidence and knowing staff understand how to offer a warm, practical and respectful welcome.

“This programme is so important because it helps embed inclusion into the everyday running of hotels, rather than treating it as an afterthought.

“For disabled visitors, para-athletes and spectators, that could mean less uncertainty and a more confident, welcoming experience of Glasgow during the Commonwealth Games and beyond.”

As well as training, participating hotels benefit from digital toolkits, checklists and ongoing expert advice to support continuous improvement.

By focusing on practical action and long-term change, the programme will help position Glasgow as a leading accessible destination – both during the Commonwealth Games and beyond.