With the Christmas rush about to get into full swing, the first stop before tackling busy car parks, well stocked shops and the all important Christmas party should be the DisabledGo-Isle of Man disabled access guide.

The guide, which was launched in 2006 and is updated each year, is designed to empower local disabled people and visitors to get the access information they require. It is also a fantastic tool for businesses to ensure they are ‘ahead of the game’ when making their services accessible.

Using DisabledGo’s access information, local people and visitors to the Isle of Man have the opportunity to make informed choices about access to shops and local services - giving them the power to choose where they spend their money.

Whether it’s finding out where the accessible parking bays are in Douglas, the width of shop doorways on the high street or the location and dimensions of accessible toilets, it all contributes to the experience someone with an access requirement will have. DisabledGo provides this information, giving people the freedom to make their own informed choices.
Beyond this, the initiative has given businesses the opportunity to actively promote their services to disabled people. With the annual spending power of disabled people reaching ?80 Billion in Britain, there is no better incentive this Christmas than to ensure shops, restaurants, pubs and any other premises are doing their bit to improve and promote their access.

So, before heading out and tackling the shops this Christmas, why not check out www.disabledgo.com before you go. If you’re a business, keep those aisles clear and consider whether you can afford to miss out on your share of ?80 Billion pounds in 2013.