Recognising Virtual Tours as an Accessibility Aid for Disabled People

Accessibility is often spoken about in terms of ramps, lifts, signage, or adapted facilities. But true accessibility goes beyond the physical. For many disabled people — particularly those living with autism, PTSD, severe anxiety, or mobility challenges — the real barrier comes before they even step through the door: uncertainty.

That’s why the newly published formal briefing paper, “Recognising Virtual Tours as an Accessibility Aid for Disabled People”, marks such an important moment.

Why this paper matters

• Backed by a legal opinion from discrimination barrister Louise Mankau of Doughty Street Chambers (DSC).

• Formally noted (and crucially, not challenged) by the DWP and Cabinet Office in 2025.

• Now under legal review within UK Government.

• Circulated by Ofsted’s SEND team and supported by cross-party MPs.

This represents the strongest recognition to date that WCAG-compliant virtual tours are more than just a marketing tool — they are an accessibility aid.

The role of virtual familiarisation

Virtual tours can reduce anxiety and increase confidence by allowing people to explore spaces online before visiting in person.

This benefit extends to:

• Jobcentres and recruitment sites

• Healthcare settings

• Workplaces and training providers

• Airports, train stations, and other public services

For those who experience heightened stress or fear of the unknown, the ability to virtually “walk through” a space can be the difference between attending and not attending at all.

A matter of rights, not preferences

The DSC legal opinion is clear: virtual familiarisation isn’t just helpful — it can be a legal right under the Equality Act 2010. By not offering this type of accessibility support, organisations risk excluding people and potentially breaching their duty to make reasonable adjustments.

Who should take notice?

If you work in:

• SEND education

• Disability employment or HR

• Public sector accessibility

• Infrastructure, planning, or digital transformation

…this paper is a call to action. Recognising and implementing virtual tours as a reasonable adjustment could transform access for millions of people.

Final thoughts

For years, many of us in this field have been advocating for immersive technology to be understood as more than just innovation — but as inclusion. This paper provides the clarity and weight needed to push that conversation forward at government level.

The message is simple: accessibility isn’t optional. And in 2025, immersive technology is no longer futuristic — it’s essential.