New app highlights accessible amenities for people with disabilities

People with disabilities can now have get information on thousands of accessible amenities throughout the country with the development of the first recreational app in Europe for this purpose.

Regarded as a major breakthrough in the promotion of accessible facilities, Able Active, developed by an Irish company, builds on technology designed for participation in sport, with considerable input from potential service users and advocacy groups.

Able Active signposts accessible recreational facilities for people with disabilities and was developed with support from the European Space Agency following a successful application.

Able Active uniquely captures feedback and gradings on accessibility and inclusivity, based on real users’ experience, by distinct disability categories, ensuring that others with similar needs can trust the rating and have better confidence that their needs will be met.

“People living with disabilities should have access to outdoor amenities and facilities suitable for their needs and Able Active provides deeper information that aims to inform and hopefully inspire greater participation for their enjoyment, health and wellbeing,” said Adrian Geissel CEO. "This is so important for people who have varying levels of disability, many of which are hidden. Able Active is a fully integrated and highly user-friendly guide which maps tracks, trails and amenities and allows each user to determine if these routes are suitable for their particular needs, supported by the ratings and feedback from other users with similar needs. It allows people plan their days around the various amenities from forests to beaches and gives ‘real time ‘live data on weather and pinpoints where safety equipment is located, crucial to ensure safety for users. It also allows for users to record, replay and repeat their own favourite routes which is very valuable.”

The app allows for users to connect with family and friends and for group leaders, to plan, share and co-ordinate activities for any gatherings.

“Facilities including accessible toilets and parking, surfaces, obstacles, inclines or declines can be detailed,” explained Adrian Geissel.

“The wonderful thing too is that people with an interest in full inclusion for those living with disabilities to get involved, to identify amenities they know to be accessible, in addition to using many available databases.”