ACCESSIBILITY information for hospitals in the county are more easily available for patients, as Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust joins forces with AccessAble.

AccessAble is the UK's leading provider of accessibility information, who create a series of Detailed Access Guides designed to help people plan their visit before arriving at hospital. The guides provide information on features such as parking, step-free access, lifts, accessible toilets, hearing loops, seating, walking distances, and signage.

The first guides covering Gloucestershire Royal Hospital launched on Monday, October 12, and some key areas of Cheltenham General Hospital are also available. The rest will follow in early 2027.

The project has been funded by Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity as part of its commitment to improving the experience of patients, families and visitors.

Anna Nelson, AccessAble Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Trust on this important initiative, and I would like to thank both the charity and Trust colleagues for their commitment and support in making it possible.

“By investing in detailed, accurate accessibility information, the Trust is demonstrating real leadership in helping disabled people, patients and visitors plan their journeys with greater confidence. We know that accessibility is about more than the physical environment; having the information you need before you arrive can make an enormous difference to someone's experience."

Will Cleary-Gray, Director of Improvement and Delivery, said: “We know everyone's accessibility needs are different. By working with AccessAble, we can provide clear, reliable information that helps patients, visitors and carers make informed decisions about their visit and reduces some of the uncertainty that can come with attending hospital.

“Coming to hospital can be stressful, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the site or have specific access requirements. These guides will help people plan ahead with confidence by providing detailed information about our facilities before they arrive."