Wheelchair User’s Guide to Christmas: Shopping, Pubs & More

Welcome to the first in a series of articles we have created in collaboration with our partners Spinal Injuries Association (SIA). We hope this series can highlight challenges, increase awareness, and provide sound advice about life with spinal cord  injuries, particularly during the winter months.

Tackling the festive calendar with a spinal cord injury

Despite Christmas being a time for some of our favourite traditions; Christmas shopping, a festive pint at the pub, and of course, Christmas dinner with the family, these events can present unique challenges for wheelchair users.

Speaking to Gary Dawson, Support Network Manager at the Spinal Injury Association, he said:

“The first Christmas home after injury can be both a wonderful and traumatic time for a newly injured person. Friends and family celebrating can feel like your injury is being overlooked especially if this if your first time being home.

If your loved one is unable to walk, there are some things you should consider; how will they get in the house? Are they comfortable being lifted if a ramp is not an option? Can they get to a toilet? Consider your timings if the person is limited on how long they can stay. Is there space to manoeuvre? A person new to being a wheelchair user may not want to sit in the middle of a room, you can feel like you’re on display. Consider how a wheelchair user can sit in the room as a seamless part of the group. And lastly, be aware this may be a very over whelming time for the person. It is probably not how they planned their next Christmas to be. Give plenty of time and space to the person should they need it. Preparation is also important, speak to your loved one and let them know the plans and contingencies should they need to leave suddenly. All this will help them feel at ease so they can do the most important thing, spend quality time with the ones they love.”

Navigating busy shopping areas, finding accessible venues, and ensuring comfort during family gatherings are just a few hurdles. By taking thoughtful steps, wheelchair users and their loved ones can ensure an inclusive and enjoyable festive season.

Accessible Christmas Shopping

Love it or hate it, shopping for Christmas gifts is an essential activity in the build-up to the 25th. Although we are increasingly shopping more online, getting out there and soaking up the atmosphere is a great way to get into the festive spirit.

Here are some top tips for wheelchair users to navigate the hustle and bustle of the Christmas gift rush:

• Planning Ahead: Research shopping centres and high streets with accessible parking, entrances, and toilets. Many websites and apps provide information on accessibility features, making it easier to choose shopping destinations that are easier to navigate.
• Timing Your Trip: Visit shopping areas during off-peak hours to avoid large crowds and ensure a smoother experience. Some stores also offer quiet shopping hours, providing a calmer atmosphere for those who prefer less sensory stimulation.
• Accessibility Aids: Many larger shopping centres provide wheelchairs or mobility aids for visitors. Bringing a companion can also help carry your shopping or manage tricky spots.

Enjoying Festive Drinks at the Pub

Having a drink at the pub with family and friends is a staple activity of the festive calendar, one that no one should have to miss out on.

Here are ways to make this activity accessible:

• Choosing the Right Venue: Not all pubs are accessible for wheelchair users, so it’s a good idea to call ahead and ask about ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets. Look for venues with spacious layouts and clear pathways to avoid having to manoeuvre through tight spaces. Apps such as Sociability and AccessAble provide loads of useful accessibility info to inform your trips out.
• Booking in Advance: Reserving a table ensures that a comfortable and accessible spot is available. Informing the venue about specific needs, such as space for a wheelchair user or proximity to facilities, can enhance the experience.

Visiting Loved Ones for Christmas Dinner

Family gatherings are at the heart of Christmas celebrations. Here’s how to ensure these occasions are wheelchair-accessible:

• Communicating Needs: Openly discuss accessibility requirements with whoever is hosting. This might include ensuring ramp access, arranging furniture to allow free movement, and being mindful of how accessible the toilet is.
• Bringing Essentials: Portable ramps, cushions for comfort, and necessary medical equipment can make the visit smoother. Preparing for unexpected challenges ensures a stress-free celebration.
• Creating an Inclusive Atmosphere: Encourage hosts to arrange activities and seating that allow everyone to participate equally. Small adjustments can make a big difference in creating a welcoming environment.

Tips for Hosts and Families

Hosting an accessible Christmas can be easy with a few thoughtful changes and some collaboration with whoever is sharing the day with you.

Making Your Home Accessible:

• Remove clutter and obstacles to create clear pathways.
• Use temporary ramps or platforms to eliminate barriers like steps.
• Ensure all key areas, including restrooms and dining spaces, are easily accessible.

• Inclusive Decorating: Avoid placing decorations in pathways or overloading spaces with ornaments. Consider decorating at varying heights to ensure everyone can enjoy the festive ambiance.
• Comfortable Dining: Adjust table heights to accommodate wheelchair users and provide supportive seating options for guests who might need them. Serving food in a buffet style can also make the meal more accessible for everyone.

Spreading Awareness and Inclusivity

Making Christmas accessible isn’t just about logistics—it’s about fostering a spirit of inclusivity and understanding. Share these tips with friends and family to raise awareness about accessibility challenges and solutions. We hope that this article eases any anxiety or stress related to carrying out your favourite Christmas traditions, whether it be bagging the perfect gift, having a pint at the pub or spending time with family.

To find out more about Abbots Care can support you with a spinal cord injury click here.

And for more specialist advice visit SIA’s website