A few simple changes have been frightfully good for Dark Stories True Crime Tours.
Real-time route changes to suit diverse group needs have helped more people take tours, while staying true to storylines. General manager, Sara Barlow said Dark Stories focused on inclusivity rather than competitors’ offerings.
“We made a conscious decision to ensure our tours are accessible to everyone,” Sara said.
“We have a general route that encapsulates all the beautiful parts of Brisbane, but also multiple alternate routes to reflect different levels of access."
“If someone asks, ‘can we use a wheelchair?’, the answer is ‘yes’. We’ll have a different route to avoid tricky paths that still enables the group to see the site or building in our story.”
Download our Better Access, More Customers guide for simple ways to help more people connect with your products and services.
Training and support are key
Sara said training staff was key to making simple business changes work.
“Senior tour hosts train new staff on the job for the practical experiences,” Sara said.
“All hosts need to know in real time how to adjust the tour pace or exchange route sections for different group needs and conditions, and when to ask for help."
“Support is always available and it’s just a phone call away.”
While route options have ensured all guests can enjoy the city’s dark stories, Sara said the business continues to make accessibility improvements.
“We have introduced a special requirements section to online bookings and also ask people in person to let us know their needs.”
A rise in inclusive activities
Removing physical, sensory and personal attitude barriers for customers helps more people connect with a business.
Council is improving accessibility and inclusion with events such as Quiet Afternoons at the Museum of Brisbane every Tuesday, 3–5pm.
Designed for visitors who prefer low-stimulus environments, Quiet Afternoons reduces sensory stimuli like light, looping sounds and loud noises. A benefit to people with autism, dementia, mental health or chronic illness conditions.
Do you have a story?
Tell us about your business accessibility improvements and customer responses, problems solved, or what's on your to-do list by emailing Council.