Historic England – Disability Access to Heritage Project

Direct Access has worked with Historic England to publish a report detailing the various ways it will work to enhance access and inclusion at various heritage sites throughout the UK.

Historic England’s ‘Disability Access to Heritage Project’ is the first to take a sector-wide approach to identifying and addressing the barriers and issues facing disabled people from accessing heritage – whether that be in jobs and careers, volunteering, visiting, or participation. 

The Disability Research Project was facilitated and conducted by Direct Access, an internationally recognised disability accessibility consultancy, who conducted various public surveys and accessibility consultations with the public prior to delivering the report.

The scope of the project explored access improvements in areas such as interpretation and signage, wayfinding, ramped access, walking routes, seating and benches, car parks and Blue Badge policies, spatial lighting, entrances, and sensory planting, which would provide a more attractive and interactive green space. Some of the initial recommendations have also suggested the incorporation of QR code technology.

The project was the first to look at the issue of disability inclusion and access on a sector-wide basis, and the first to set sector-wide actions in place. Prior to the publication of this report, the data the heritage sector had on disability access and inclusion was limited and where it did exist, it demonstrated that the levels of representation do not match the known demographics of the population of England today. Historic England commissioned Direct Access to conduct research to expand on this data, to help focus action plans and resources to support the sector in improving access and inclusion.

The final report was published on the 14th May, coinciding with a session at the Museum and Heritage Show 2025.