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The app and buddy system are part of a £1m scheme to make the coastal town more disability friendly for residents and visitors, in its first few weeks it has gained high profile support. 

The Access Fylde Coast project, spearheaded by Whitegate Drive-based charity Disability First, aims to break down the barriers of disability – including hidden disabilities, such as sensory, mental health and learning disabilities. If it succeeds, it will help businesses unlock an estimated £14.8m of additional spending from the increase in disabled visitors inspired to come.

A dedicated team has now been appointed in Blackpool to work on the Access Fylde Coast project, the official launch is planned for 24th April this year. The plans include a new digital app, which will link in with the popular Blackpool Transport App, to make it easier for people to find disability-friendly places, toilets and special facilities. The new ‘buddy’ system will see volunteers linking up with both local and visiting disabled people to enable them to fully experience all that the area has to offer. Access Fylde Coast will also be hosting a series of disability-friendly events as well as showcasing high profile disability performers at major events, including the Blackpool Illumination Switch On and Lytham Festival. The project has already won support of organisations in the area.

Talking to the local press, Alan Reid, CEO of Disability First, which is behind the project, said improvements in Blackpool over the past few years with accessible toilets and ramps to assist people with physical conditions have been good, but that this project would further advance that progress. 
He said: “Blackpool has a higher than average number of people living with disabilities and our work with local businesses and retailers to improve the service given to customers with disabilities will not just ensure it is accessible to tourists, but help a large number of residents too."

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