Disneyland Paris Enhances Accessibility with New Communication Service for Guests with Disabilities
Disneyland Paris has launched a new service to assist guests with disabilities, enhancing communication at the resort. This initiative is part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The resort previously introduced AudioSpot audio description in 2022 and Virtuoz tactile maps in 2023 for guests who are blind and visually impaired. Now, the new service focuses on guests who have difficulties communicating verbally.
The service includes a collection of images showcasing key experiences at Disneyland Paris, such as attractions, shows, Disney characters, dining options, and merchandise. Guests can use these images to express their interests and create phrases.
The image bank is designed to complement the pictograms guests already utilize in daily life. It is available in French and English for free download from the accessibility page of the Disneyland Paris website. This allows guests to familiarize themselves with the images before their visit.
What other accessibility services are available for guests at Disneyland Paris?
Interview with Accessibility Specialist at Disneyland Paris
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the new service for guests with communication difficulties at Disneyland Paris?
Specialist: Thank you for having me. The inspiration for this initiative stems from our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. We aim to create an environment where every guest, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the magic of Disneyland Paris. We recognized that guests who struggle with verbal communication often face challenges in expressing their needs and desires during their visit. Our new image bank service is designed to empower these guests by providing them with a means to communicate effectively.
Interviewer: How does the new image bank work, and what does it contain?
Specialist: The image bank is a carefully curated collection of visuals representing key experiences at Disneyland Paris. It includes images of attractions, shows, beloved Disney characters, dining offerings, and merchandise. Guests can use these images to communicate their interests and create simple phrases, making it easier for them to express themselves while in the park. This service complements the pictograms that many people already use in their daily lives.
Interviewer: What kind of research and collaboration went into developing this service?
Specialist: The development involved a comprehensive year-long process. We collaborated closely with our guest accessibility team, Walt Disney Imagineering Paris, and a group of specialized consultants focused on accessibility. Their insights were invaluable in shaping a service that truly meets the needs of our guests. Our goal was to ensure that every element of the service is intuitive and user-friendly.
Interviewer: Disneyland Paris already has several accessibility measures in place. How does this new service fit into that broader context?
Specialist: The new image bank is a significant addition to our existing accessibility services, which include audio descriptions in attractions and restaurants, French sign language interpretation in select shows, and wheelchair-accessible facilities. Together, these initiatives create a more inclusive environment where all guests can have a memorable experience. We see this service as part of a continuous journey towards enhancing accessibility for everyone.
Interviewer: What feedback have you received since launching the service?
Specialist: While it’s still early days, the initial feedback has been encouraging. Guests are expressing appreciation for our efforts to support those with communication challenges. We believe this service will make a real difference in their experience at the park, allowing them to engage fully in all that Disneyland Paris has to offer.
Interviewer: how can guests access this new service?
Specialist: The image bank is available for free download on the accessibility page of our Disneyland Paris website, in both French and English. We encourage guests to familiarize themselves with the images before their visit so they can make the most of their time with us.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing these insights. It’s clear that Disneyland Paris is making great strides in accessibility and inclusion.
Specialist: Thank you for helping us share our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all guests at Disneyland Paris.
This project involved collaboration between Disneyland Paris’s guest accessibility team, Walt Disney Imagineering Paris, and specialized consultants. After a year of research and design, Disneyland Paris becomes the first theme park in France to offer this service.
In recent years, Disneyland Paris has implemented various accessibility services, including audio descriptions in attractions and restaurants, French sign language interpretation in select shows, accessibility guides and maps, priority access cards, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These efforts aim to ensure that all guests feel welcome and have an enjoyable experience.
For more details about Disneyland Paris’s accessibility commitment, visit their MagicALL page.
