Marsham Court Hotel Director Appointed UK Government Disability & Access Ambassador
August 6, 2025IN BLOG POSTS BY MARSHAM COURT HOTEL
Marsham Court Hotel is delighted to share that James Dixon-Box, our Operations Director, has been officially appointed by the UK Government as the Disability & Access Ambassador for the Hospitality Industry.
The appointment, announced on 31st July 2025, is part of a government initiative coordinated by the Cabinet Office Disability Unit. In this national ambassadorial role, James will collaborate with business leaders, accessibility advocates, and government stakeholders to improve inclusion and remove access barriers across the UK’s hospitality sector.
This recognition reflects both James’s personal commitment to inclusive hospitality and the Marsham Court Hotel’s ongoing investment in creating a welcoming environment for all guests.
What Does the Role Involve?
The Disability & Access Ambassador programme supports the UK Government’s ambition to build a more accessible and inclusive society. Ambassadors are drawn from across key industries and are tasked with helping businesses adopt best practices, improve accessibility, and better meet the needs of disabled people.
In his role, James will:
- Represent the hospitality industry in cross-sector accessibility initiatives
- Promote best practice and inclusive design across hotels, restaurants, and venues
- Encourage organisations to go beyond compliance and embed accessibility into service and culture
Further details about the ambassador programme are available on the official UK Government website:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/disability-and-access-ambassadors
“Hospitality should be welcoming to everyone,” said James. “That means ensuring accessibility is embedded not just in facilities, but in attitudes and service. I look forward to collaborating with others in the industry to drive meaningful change.”
Accessibility at Marsham Court Hotel
Located on the seafront in Bournemouth, Dorset, Marsham Court Hotel has received national attention for its commitment to inclusive travel. Under James’s leadership, the hotel has introduced a range of accessible features, including:
- A fully equipped Changing Places facility, compliant with national standards (see: https://www.changing-places.org/)
- Adapted bedrooms designed for wheelchair users and guests with reduced mobility
- Step-free access throughout communal areas, including the lobby, restaurant, and outdoor terrace
- Staff trained in disability awareness and inclusive hospitality
You can read more about the hotel’s accessibility features at:
https://www.marshamcourthotel.co.uk/accessibility
Why This Appointment Matters
Bournemouth is one of the UK’s most popular coastal destinations. Yet for many travellers with disabilities or additional access needs, hotel options remain limited. At Marsham Court, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing break by the sea, regardless of physical ability or support requirements.
James’s appointment as Disability & Access Ambassador not only recognises his leadership in this space – it places Bournemouth and Marsham Court Hotel at the centre of the national conversation on accessible hospitality.
Planning an Accessible Stay in Bournemouth?
Whether you’re organising a multi-generational holiday, a family trip with additional needs, or a solo getaway requiring adapted facilities, Marsham Court Hotel offers comfort, flexibility, and personal support.
We encourage guests to contact us in advance to discuss individual requirements. For more information or to make a booking, visit:
https://www.marshamcourthotel.co.uk/
Media Enquiries:
Jane Langridge
Business Development Director
jane@marshamcourthotel.co.uk
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