The RNID is calling on more tourist attractions to ensure greater accessibility. © RNID

As Heritage Open Days, the annual celebration of the nation’s heritage, kicks off across the UK today the UK’s foremost charity for the deaf is urging the tourism industry to ensure greater accessibility for the country’s nine million deaf and hard of hearing people.

The Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) says the industry needs to invest in much needed equipment to comply with current disability law and ensure that deaf and hard of hearing people can enjoy the many tourist attractions on offer during the Heritage Opens Days weekend and beyond.

RNID Products, the charity’s not-for-profit retail arm, is recommending a range of devices including portable or installed loop systems which amplify the spoken word for hearing aid users and a specially developed tour guide systems that allow staff to communicate effectively with everyone in the group including those that can’t hear as well as they used to.

“Ahead of Heritage Open Days 2008 we are asking businesses in the tourism industry across the UK to make themselves accessible to deaf and hard of hearing people,” said Mark Catling, Director of Business Development, RNID Products. “A few simple changes can greatly improve a visitor’s experience and ensure they get the most from the venues they visit.”

The V&A is backing the RNID’s plea. © V&A Museum

“Our advice and innovative products help breakdown barriers which stop deaf and hard of hearing people accessing the information they need,” added Mr Catling. “No longer should businesses in the tourism industry be daunted by the prospect of making themselves accessible.”

Many of the UK’s heritage attractions do already cater for the deaf and hard of hearing and one them, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), is backing the RNID’s plea.

“The V&A would definitely encourage other organisations to find out more about RNID Products,” said Barry Ginly, Disability and Access Officer at the V&A, “as it helped to assure deaf and hard of hearing visitors that we are serious about improving access for them.”

Venues that want to find out more about opening their doors to deaf and hard of hearing people are asked to contact RNID Products, the not-for-profit retail arm of RNID, on 01733 361199 or email solutions@rnid.org.uk

Heritage Open Days takes place in thousands of properties across the UK between September 11 – 14. Find out what's happening near you at www.heritageopendays.org.