Fermanagh and Omagh District Council launches Age and Access Charter to boost inclusion for older people and people with disabilities

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has officially launched an Age and Access Friendly Charter, a new initiative designed to help local businesses, community venues and public services become more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

The launch coincides with Purple Tuesday, a global movement that celebrates improved accessibility and inclusion for disabled people. Purple Tuesday encourages organisations around the world to make long-term commitments to enhance the customer experience for disabled people. It also highlights the significant spending power of disabled people and their families, often referred to as the ‘Purple Pound’.

The Age and Access Friendly Charter encourages organisations to assess and improve their accessibility standards for older people and people with disabilities. By signing up, participants commit to implementing good practice in areas such as customer care, communication, physical access, signage and staff support.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Barry McElduff, said,

“The Age and Access Charter reflects our commitment to creating communities where everyone feels welcome and supported. Accessibility is not just a legal or moral responsibility, it is also good for business and vital for social inclusion.

I encourage all businesses and organisations with venues to be accountable and sign up to the Age and Access Charter.

By improving accessibility, local businesses can attract more customers, build loyalty and strengthen community connections.”

 Commenting on the Charter, Allison Forbes at South West Age Partnership said,

“We warmly welcome this initiative from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council. The Age and Access Charter recognises that accessibility isn’t just about physical adaptations—it’s about creating a culture of respect and inclusion that enables older people to access services, maintain social connections, and continue contributing to local life.”

Disability Ambassador and Accessibility Advocate, Shelley Cowan, added,

“The Age and Access Charter is a real step forward in helping businesses and community spaces understand that accessibility benefits everyone. When a venue is truly accessible, it removes barriers not just for people with disabilities but for families, carers and older residents too. Initiatives like this show that inclusion is achievable when we listen, learn and take action together.”

Organisations that meet the Charter standards will receive an Age and Access Friendly window sticker, signifying their commitment to accessibility.

To sign up, businesses and venues can download further information and the Charter checklist from the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council website here.