New Facility Updates

June 2026

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Launches “Know Before You Go” Guides to Enhance Accessibility for All Visitors

Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, in partnership with the Regenerative Tourism Business Network, is proud to announce the launch of its new “Know Before You Go” Guides, a significant step forward in making the Geopark a more accessible and inclusive destination for all.

The guides have been developed to support visitors with physical disabilities, sensory needs and neurodivergent conditions, providing clear, practical information to help people plan their visit with confidence. They include essential details on trails, facilities, accessibility features and sensory considerations across a wide range of sites within the Geopark.

Speaking at the event, Councillor John Paul Feeley, Chair of the Geopark Committee, said:

“Accessibility is a core value of the Geopark Charter, and this initiative reflects the strong commitment of Cavan County Council, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, along with our tourism partners, to continuously improving accessibility across the Geopark.”

Around 16% of the global population lives with a disability, and that figure increases to one in five on the island of Ireland, underlining the importance of accessible tourism as both a social responsibility and a significant commercial opportunity for destinations.

Commenting on the development of the guides, Councillor Anthony Feely, Vice Chair of the Geopark Committee, noted:

“These guides are a very practical step towards making the Geopark more inclusive. By providing clear and reliable information, we are helping to remove barriers that can often prevent people from visiting, ensuring that more individuals and families can enjoy the unique landscapes and experiences our region has to offer.”

Many studies highlight that the lack of information on available services is among the most commonly reported obstacles for visitors with disabilities, often cited as a greater barrier than physical infrastructure itself.

Gráinne O’Connor, Manager of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, said:

“Accessibility begins with information. These guides help ensure that more people can experience the landscapes, heritage and biodiversity of the Geopark with confidence. Our aim is simple: to create a destination where everyone feels welcome and included.”

In 2025, Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark participated in the Divergently Together project, which explores how people with disabilities are adversely affected by climate change. Through the project, officers and network members were introduced to the concept of Know Before You Go guides.

Producing the guides at a destination level is a direct response to participation in this project, aligned with growing evidence that a lack of clear, reliable information remains one of the greatest barriers to travel for people with disabilities. Research shows that travellers with both physical and neurological accessibility needs frequently face challenges before they even begin their journey, with inconsistent or insufficient information making trip planning difficult and time-consuming.

Alan James Burns, Divergently Together, said:

“The ‘Know Before You Go’ Guides aim to remove these barriers by providing transparent, easy-to-understand information so visitors can make informed decisions based on their individual needs. As a disabled person myself, I am delighted that the Geopark and Regenerative Tourism Business Network members have demonstrated their commitment to accessibility through this initiative, showing how practical changes can make a real difference.”

Through this initiative, Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark and its partners are working to:
• Improve access to clear, uniform and trusted visitor information consistent across the region
• Support independent trip planning for people of all abilities
• Reduce anxiety and uncertainty for neurodivergent visitors
• Encourage greater participation in outdoor and nature-based experiences

Shelley Cowan, Accessibility Advocate and Founder of Travel Ease, said:

“The commitment shown by the Geopark in developing these ‘Know Before You Go’ guides is a powerful step forward for accessibility. It recognises that inclusion starts long before someone arrives, it begins with clear, honest information that allows people to plan with confidence. This work not only removes barriers, it sends a clear message that everyone is welcome and considered.’

Tony Walker, GM Slieve Russell Hotel and Chair of the Regenerative Tourism Business Network added,

‘This project reflects the Geopark’s wider commitment to regenerative tourism, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared by communities while protecting the natural environment and welcoming visitors of all abilities.

This project highlights the strength of collaboration across the Regenerative Tourism Business Network. By working together, we are ensuring that accessibility is embedded across the visitor experience, helping to create a more welcoming, inclusive and supportive destination for everyone.”

July 2025

New Changing Places Facility at Share Discovery Village

Share Discovery Village and Mannok are delighted to announce the construction of a Changing Places Facility, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can enjoy a more inclusive and accessible experience at Share Discovery Village in Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh.

This new facility, funded by Mannok, will provide a fully equipped changing space, making it easier for both adults and children with complex needs to visit for a day trip, respite stay, or residential experience. Featuring a height-adjustable changing bench, hoist system, and ample space for carers, the Changing Places Facility is designed to offer dignity, comfort, and convenience for those who need it most.

"We are incredibly grateful to Mannok for their generous support in making Share Discovery Village even more accessible," said Catherine Keaney, Marketing Coordinator at Share Discovery Village. 

"This facility will allow more families, schools, and community groups to enjoy everything we have to offer, whether for a fun day out, a short respite break, or a longer residential stay—without the worry of finding suitable changing facilities."

Caroline McCaffrey, Mannok Human Resources Manager, said, “Mannok is proud to support and fund Share Discovery Village in creating this vital new facility. Accessibility and inclusivity are fundamental to ensuring everyone can enjoy meaningful experiences, and we are thrilled to make this a reality. This Changing Places Facility will enable those with complex needs to access and enjoy the activities on offer that they were previously unable to do at the Discovery Village."

Located in the heart of Co. Fermanagh, Share Discovery Village is committed to providing inclusive outdoor adventures and experiences for people of all abilities. The addition of a Changing Places Facility represents a significant step toward making the centre welcoming for everyone.

For more information about Share Discovery Village and its commitment to accessibility, visit www.sharevillage.org.

January 2025

New Mobility Hoist Installed at Castle Island

There are a growing number of fantastic adventure providers in Northern Ireland committed to making their provision more inclusive. Blue Green Yonder is an activity centre right in the heart of Enniskillen on Castle Island. In January this year, owner Trevor Foster, was delighted to receive support to install a new mobility hoist on Castle Island. "Adventure for All" is and has always been a core value of Blue Green Yonder. This installation will open and facilitate access to Lough Erne for many who can't simply take jumping in a boat for granted.