How to Create an Accessible Business - a Micro Business Gold Standard

In a world that worships big business, it's easy to assume that big business is therefore leading the way in areas like accessibility, inclusivity, uplifting workplaces, sustainable practice and more.

However, what we see over and over again, is a movement of micro businesses that are the pioneers of the possible, exceptional practitioners of gold standard approaches and seekers of the best ways to innovate and deliver experiences and value that punches way above their weight.

With agility and resourcefulness in their toolkit, it is micro businesses (small businesses with 0-9 employees) who are innovating on the high street, providing exceptional service and experience for all of society, giving back to community as a core function of their business & prioritising the creation of high quality work that is fulfilling, positive & meaningful.

None more so than Hoe Grange Holidays, a family business in the Peak District, who have added to their huge awards cabinet with a Gold award for Accessibility & Inclusivity in Tourism at the Visit England Awards (they also won in 2024!). Felicity, David and Caroline run their tourism business, celebrating 20 years this year too, with a kind of dedication & energy that can only inspire & encourage.

David, Felicity & Caroline Brown from Hoe Grange Holidays

On their Peak District Farm, they have created a multi award winning accessible holiday experience that is leading the way in 'what good looks & feels like' for families and individuals who want to access a great holiday with all their needs catered for. With a driving purpose to always be at the forefront of what's next, they have consistently created an offer that is often the first holiday or countryside experience that people have had in a very long time, if ever.

Their impeccably equiped lodges are just the starting point, with cosy interiors that provide every additional support you can think of, from wheelchair access to mobile hoists, wet rooms and electric beds and chairs. They offer one of the UK's first off road electic wheechairs so that holiday makers can enjoy a real countryside experience. Their lodges have even been painted to offer better contrast for thosw with sight loss. Family activity boxes are available for those on the Autistic Spectrum and carers are looked after and worked with to help plan ahead.

Head to their website for more information while we ponder on how we can all look to, & be inspired by, micro businesses across the UK who are using innovation & purpose to not only help them survive and thrive, but actually create a brighter future for all. With micros making up 96% of all UK private enterprise, that's 5.4million micros who also create 24% of annual UK turnover, we have an opportunity to celebrate & support business who are 'doing business for good' by shining a light on who the change makers really are.

We have a vision to help transform more lives through micro business in the UK with a mission to help businesses do better for people, places & planet. Simply Club is our growing community of micros businesses. We help them to start, build grow their businesses with community, clarity & confidence. Find out more.