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Changes set to be made to Disney’s Disability Access Service will punish those with disabilities rather than prevent use by able-bodied ‘disability fakers’, a group has said
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 23 Apr 2024
Disability fakers are becoming a problem for Disney parks, with many people abusing the disability system in order to skip the lengthy lines
After threatening guests who lie about disabilities with lifetime bans from its theme parks, Disney has come under fire over the changes made to its longstanding Disability Access Service provision service.
Disney made the changes to its disability policy earlier this month following a “significant” increase in people taking advantage of disability policies to skip lines and avoid crowds. These services are the most requested at the operator’s Florida and California parks, with such requests tripling over the past five years.
Previously, the Disability Access Service pass was made available to individuals with all manner of disabilities, including those with mobility impairments. Under the amended version, from May 20 at Disney World and June 18 at Disneyland, only visitors with developmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder will be able to request a return time.
A coalition representing around 140 guests with disabilities planning to visit Disney’s US parks has expressed its outrage at the changes. In a letter written to Disney’s upper management, the coalition accuses the corporation of discriminating against people living with conditions including cancer, narcolepsy, Parkinson's, PTSD, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy among others.
“Punishing disabled individuals for the actions of able-bodied individuals who abuse the system is not a solution,” reads the letter. “These changes fail to adequately address abuse; people who abuse the system will still lie.”
According to Disney, the amendments are designed to narrow down previously vague language to define who exactly can make use of the policy. Disney also says that any guests found to have taken advantage of the programme among a rising tide of ‘disability fakers’ will earn a lifetime ban from its parks.
Responding to the letter Disney reaffirmed its commitment to its disabled guests.
“Disney is dedicated to providing a great experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, which is why we are so committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our guests with disabilities have a wonderful time when visiting our theme parks,” said the operator.
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