According to calculations, approximately 12% of the island’s populace comprises individuals with disabilities, encompassing a range of categories from physical to intellectual, auditory to sensory. The institutional agreement reached yesterday during the Plenary Commission of Social Action of the Cabildo de Tenerife, prompted by a motion from the Socialist group, presented by Nauzet Gugetta, aims to integrate these individuals into social tourism initiatives akin to those for the elderly. The Social and Socio-Sanitary Institute (IASS) will spearhead this initiative, collaborating with local municipalities and social organisations that support this demographic.
Elderly
The existing Social Tourism programme is designed to enhance the quality of life for the elderly residing in Tenerife by facilitating travel participation and engaging in activities that promote connection with diverse environments, broaden cultural relationships and knowledge, foster skills and motivations, as well as encourage encounters and coexistence.
33%
The island region will now initiate a programme aimed at individuals with a recognised disability of 33% or more who have not benefited from any other subsidised trips by public entities within the same calendar year. The objective is to ensure equitable opportunities in tourism and leisure. Inclusive tourism seeks to guarantee accessibility for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to enjoy experiences on equal terms with others. This sector, while diverse, shares the common need for additional guarantees to fully exercise their rights and participate on an equal footing in the socio-cultural and economic life of the community.
Barrier
A significant barrier faced daily is the ability to travel, encompassing all its implications at the personal and social levels. Public institutions are obligated to facilitate equal access to tourism and leisure, ensuring that socio-economic circumstances do not become obstacles.
Survey
A survey conducted by the Adecco Foundation in 2018 revealed that 56% of individuals with disabilities forego vacationing due to a lack of accessibility at any stage of the process (booking, transportation, accommodation, destination, etc.); meaning that more than half of them are affected. In light of this situation, and with the intention of improving access for vulnerable groups to these activities, the programme has been developed.
Motion
In the motion put forward, Nauzet Gugliotta suggested a tailored travel initiative aimed at overcoming the obstacles faced by this group. It will assist individuals with a recognised disability of 33% or higher, considering their income levels and the required support during travel. Social Action is collaborating with 22 of the 31 municipalities on the island through an investment of 804,000 euros, allocated to organise transport for 1,100 residents of Tenerife to Cantabria, the chosen destination, from August to December.
