Tourism and hospitality businesses across Wales are being
encouraged to apply for a new £2m grant scheme to improve
accessibility and create more inclusive visitor experiences, the
Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, , has announced.
The Croeso i Bawb grant scheme is being launched today to support
practical improvements that help remove barriers for disabled
visitors and those travelling with them.
The scheme will help businesses make changes that enable more
people to plan and enjoy their visit with confidence, while
supporting the Welsh Government's wider ambition to make Wales a
more accessible and welcoming destination for everyone.
Projects could include accessible toilets and bedrooms, improved
paths and hearing loops, inclusive play areas, sensory spaces,
rest areas, accessible outdoor seating and improved visitor
routes that make visitor spaces more welcoming and enjoyable for
everyone.
The Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy,
, said:
A quarter of all visitors to Wales are disabled; if Wales says
'croeso' to the world, that word cannot come with small print -
the welcome to Wales must be real for everyone.
It must hold true for disabled visitors, neurodivergent visitors
and people with hidden conditions and barriers. That's why
we are launching Croeso i Bawb, to help tourism and hospitality
businesses open their doors wider still.
Accessibility is good business, but, more than that, it is
simply what 'hospitality' means.
To help with the application process businesses will be able to
use practical guidance and a toolkit.
This has been created in collaboration with Wales-based
not-for-profit PIWS, to encourage applicants to consider every
stage of the visitor experience, understand what works well,
identify barriers, and prioritise improvements that will make the
biggest difference.
Davina Carey-Evans, from PIWS, said:
At PIWS, we are pleased to contribute our lived experience
expertise to support the development of this scheme. The most
effective accessibility improvements come from listening to
disabled people and using their insight to create innovative,
inclusive environments.
Accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it is a strategic
investment. By investing in accessible premises and facilities,
tourism businesses can enhance customer satisfaction, support and
retain staff, attract new markets, and generate a measurable
return on investment, while helping to make Wales a truly
welcoming destination for everyone.
Businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector are being asked
to submit applications by 21 September 2026.
Owner of Stangwrach Holiday Cottages, and winner of the Visit
Wales Accessible and Inclusive National Tourism Award 2025, Grace
Maidment said:
At Stangwrach we are truly passionate about inclusive hospitality
and creating a space where everyone can feel welcome. Everyone
deserves the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and memorable break
regardless of mobility, age, or need for support.
We've carefully designed our cottages to welcome all guests,
whether travelling as an individual, with a carer, with family,
or as part of a larger group. Being accessible to all guests
makes complete business sense and has enabled us to welcome
guests which otherwise may not have been able to visit. We are
extremely proud to have been recognised by the award and welcome
the opportunities the Croeso i Bawb scheme provides.
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