Government to recruit food and drink disability champion

The government is to recruit a food and drink disability champion to raise awareness of accessibility issues in restaurants and pubs.

It has already appointed 14 champions across other sectors, with Bespoke Hotels' chairman Robin Sheppard representing hotels and Chris Veitch, co-founder of Access New Business, making the case for tourism.

This new post is designed to address the issues disabled people face as consumers and raise awareness among operators of the nee to improve access, customer service and staff training.

The government is seeking someone with influential status in the food and drink industry to drive progress and break down barriers.

Minister for disabled people health and work Sarah Newton said: "There are nearly 14 million disabled people living in the UK, and just like everyone else they enjoy going out to eat and drink as a way of socialising with friends. But poor access and customer service often mean disabled people might just choose to stay at home instead.

Applications for the new disability champion roles will open on Monday 3 December 2018.

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