Canada’s outdoor tourism sector is reporting increasing numbers of requests for special accommodations from outdoor enthusiasts and family members with disabilities.  More than 24% of adult Canadians report having a disability, and over 40% of those over 65. 

Accommodations can be relatively inexpensive and simple to implement if you include the principal of “access for all” in the design stage of your facilities and services.  Retrofitting can be more costly, but simple short-term solutions can meet your immediate needs if implemented correctly.  Most provincial building codes now include detailed standards for accessible building designs; unfortunately, little published information exists on accessible designs for assets such as docks, paths, boats, outhouses, fish-cleaning stations, hunting blinds, — all challenges that Lawrence has firsthand experience addressing. 

Once you’ve implemented accessibility features, the next step is to secure a return on your investment. Lawrence can show you the best way to include accessibility in your marketing and communication strategies. 

The universal accessibility services Lawrence offers apply to businesses of all types.  His specialization  is lodges, resorts, outfitters, guides and outdoor equipment manufacturers.

Lawrence’s accessibility Services cover the following:

Facility Accessibility:

  • Environmental accessibility assessments
  • Designing from the ground up accessible facilities
  • Lighting and contrast
  • Ramps, paths, docks, boats, blinds
  • Kitchens, washrooms, out-houses
  • Lodges, out-posts, cabins
  • Safety issues and procedures

Technology:

  • Recommendations for accessible or assistive technologies
  • Testing products for accessibility and usability

Awareness / Training:

  • Accessible Service Delivery
  • Forms of assistance commonly required
  • Tips on determining levels of individual assistance required
  • Designing access solutions on the fly
  • Negotiating accessible solutions

Marketing:

  • Alternative marketing solutions
  • Direct marketing strategies
  • Braille, large print, audio
  • Website accessibility

Policy:

  • Creating customized accessibility policies
  • Policy assessment and recommendations
  • Policy implementation consultation

 Lawrence Gunther’s Clients include:

  • Telesat Canada
  • Museum of Science and Technology
  • York University
  • Nature and Outdoor Tourism Ontario
  • Bell Canada
  • Swedish Parliamentary Committee on Social Affairs
  • Secretary of State
  • Senate of Canada
  • Royal Commission on Aboriginal Affairs
  • Industry Canada
  • Advanced Technology Industry Association
  • Ontario Ministry of Tourism
  • Global Affairs
  • Canadian National Institute for the Blind
  • Ontario Human Rights Commission
  • Cannon International

To get more information about Lawrence’s services and availability, send an email to
lawrence@lawrencegunther.com