2025 Access Survey reveals the Accessibility Time Tax

The hidden Accessibility Time Tax exposed

Our latest Access Survey results have revealed that one in ten disabled people spend more than six hours a week planning routine activities, while 80% said checking the accessibility of venues increases their stress and anxiety.

From visiting a shop to catching a train or attending an event, we know from our community that disabled people carry out extensive research before leaving the house or preparing for the simplest of outings. The additional time, effort, and emotional strain create a significant barrier to participation, and is referred to as the ‘Accessibility Time Tax’.

We believe the latest results highlight a systemic issue in how services are designed and maintained, with many organisations failing to provide up-to-date and reliable accessibility information.

The reality of the Time Tax and its impact

Sadly, the Access Survey also reported that more than half (54%) of respondents feel excluded or left behind, while 47% miss out on opportunities altogether.

We spoke to Sharon Docherty, who took part in the 2025 Access Survey. Sharon said: “What people don't realise is that this planning is not a single, linear process. It is a series of research layers, each dependent on the last. I cannot book a hotel until I know it has an accessible room with the right specifications. I cannot confirm the hotel until I know the nearest accessible tube station. I cannot plan the tube journey until I know whether the lifts are working... I have to build contingency plans into contingency plans. Every single outing involves this level of detail, and it never gets easier because venues change, websites update, and what was accessible last time may not be accessible next time.

“It is tiring, frustrating, and sometimes I just give up and decide not to go if it all gets too hard. But I want to be honest about what that phrase - 'give up and decide not to go' - actually costs me, because it is easy to say and hard to convey. Every time I make that decision, I am not just missing an event. I am losing something. A concert I was looking forward to. A meal out with my daughter. A trip to a museum or a gallery. These are not luxuries - they are the things that give life quality and meaning, particularly for someone who has had to give up a career they loved.”

The problem with vague information

Vanessa, a Motability Scheme customer from Derby echoed this. She explains why accurate information is vital. “My Motability Scheme vehicle gives me real independence. It means I can plan my day and travel with confidence. But I still have to spend time double-checking whether places are actually accessible.

“When access information is vague or inaccurate, it means last-minute changes, cancelled plans and unnecessary stress. Taking accessibility seriously is about respecting disabled people’s time. When it is done properly, it makes everyday life far easier.”

Accessibility is more than ramps and toilets

When we asked our co-founder, Kiki MacDonald OBE, about the Time Tax, she told us that accessibility isn't just about ramps and toilets. Kiki said: "It's about time and autonomy. The accessibility time tax is a heavy burden that society continues to place on disabled people. By providing clear, honest access information, venues can give disabled people their time back and gain a loyal customer base in the process.”

Lisa Thomas, Chief Marketing and Customer Officer at Motability Operations, which runs the Motability Scheme, agrees. She said: “The Motability Scheme is about independence and freedom, helping disabled people get to work, education and medical appointments with confidence.

“But independence is not just about having a vehicle. Clear and accurate information reduces stress and gives people certainty. We are proud to support Euan’s Guide in asking for practical changes that give disabled people their time back.”

The Time Tax solutions you asked for in the Access Survey

Some 85% of disabled people said that better access information would significantly reduce the impact of the accessibility time tax on their lives, allowing them to plan with confidence and participate fully in everyday life. Seven in ten (70%) say being able to book accessible tickets, facilities, or services online would make planning easier and more reliable.

Disabled people, families, friends and carers - how to help disabled people plan with ease

Submit a disabled access review on EuansGuide.com - you don’t have to be an expert, just share what you find at your local coffee shop, supermarket, or play park so other disabled people can find trusted, lived experiences to help them get out with confidence.

Businesses and venues - how to help reduce the Time Tax

Businesses, venues, and service providers can review the information they publish online, ensuring it is clear, accurate and easy to find and consider making accessible tickets and facilities available to book online.

By listing their details and access information for free on EuansGuide.com, businesses can reach a loyal customer base - there are tens of thousands of disabled people looking for great places to go on our website.

About the Access Survey

The Euan’s Guide Access Survey is supported by the Motability Scheme.

Our Access Survey remains the UK’s largest and longest-running study of its kind. Supported by the Motability Scheme, the new report analysed feedback from over 4,000 participants, 88% of whom identify as disabled, to provide a sobering look at the state of accessibility today.

Download the full results at www.EuansGuide.com/AccessSurvey