The annual estimated spending power of our global population’s 1.3 billion disabled people and their households is currently estimated to be worth $8 trillion, and increasing by 14% each year. (Ref: https://www.incluserve.net/)
However, only 4% of all businesses, let alone dive businesses, have a strategy for servicing this emerging market. For many experiencing physical, psychological and/or mental challenges, adventure sports can feel out of reach. But when it comes to diving, that’s simply not the case.
With PADI, anyone who meets the prerequisites can try diving, and our sport is brimming with stories of lives fundamentally impacted for the better through the healing power of the ocean. With some basic holistic teaching principles like open communication, building trust and realistic goal setting, almost anyone can join our global network of explorers and Ocean Torchbearers.
PADI’s Third Pillar of Change, People & Humanity, reminds all of us as PADI Professionals to nurture inclusivity and welcome all people to the underwater world. By creating the new designation “PADI Adaptive Service Facility”, a clear pathway now exists for all PADI Members seeking to tap into this chronically underserved and essentially untapped market.
Keep reading to learn more…
What is a PADI Adaptive Service Facility?
A PADI Adaptive Service Facility is a PADI Member that offers comprehensive operational services and infrastructure to meet the needs of divers with physical, psychological and/or mental challenges.
In practice, this means staff trained specifically in adaptive diving techniques and support; available training for recreational divers who want to learn more about adaptive techniques and adaptive support; accessible retail and classroom spaces as well as accessible pool and boat decks.
This recognition is reserved for PADI Members who go above and beyond in offering an inclusive experience for all diver/divers from the minute they call or arrive at your center through to heading home at the end of the day and beyond.
Why Become an Adaptive Service Facility?
There are many benefits to becoming an Adaptive Service Facility (ASF). Firstly you will get a listing on the PADI Dive Shop Locator advising that you are one of the top centers for accessible diving and training opportunities globally.
Secondly, this presents a great business opportunity with the potential to open up a whole new client group who travel with friends and/or family who will want to join in with diving activities as well. Every member of the group may want to continue diving, learn to dive or engage with Adaptive Support Diver training so that they can be a buddy for their friend or family member.
This recognition offers the chance to join a global network of PADI Members with a similar ethos and customer focus, creating new connections and opportunities for those interested in organizing group trips. Moreover, travel agencies that are dedicated to disabled travelers will be able to easily identify destinations for diving adventures that can be verified as appropriate for their guests.
In the coming years, PADI will be actively exploring partnership opportunities with hospitality organizations and travel agencies that best serve disabled adventurers with the view to elevating diving as an accessible sport and promoting PADI’s network of Adaptive Service Facilities with this audience.
How to Become an Adaptive Service Facility?
To qualify you must;
- Be 100% PADI (the exception being if you offer IAHD, DDI, HSA or similar disabled training to assist those who may not be able to complete a PADI program e.g. could not gain a full medical etc.)
- Have at least one adaptive techniques instructor on staff.
- Offer accessible facilities which may include but is not limited to;
- Display areas accessible to both wheelchair users and sight impaired divers
- Classrooms with appropriate seating and support for standing and seating
- Proper toilet and changing facilities
- Access to the water which could include a pool with a ramp, lift or other means, or open water sites be it boat or shore diving (there are a number of options for this such as a water access chair which goes over sand and rocks).
We are looking to recognize PADI Members who take a holistic approach to inclusivity. By recognizing the importance of community in diving and creating social events and/or trips, you can create opportunities for divers with all abilities to take part in adventures that many may not have ever thought they could.
Contact me on [email protected] to start the process of becoming a PADI Adaptive Service Facility. There are significant benefits to getting involved now as opposed to later, so get in touch with me and I’ll explain more!
What Support is Available?
Whether you already meet the criteria, or want help getting started, please get in touch with your Regional Manager or myself ([email protected]). We will seek to better understand your business goals and existing services and infrastructure, and support you in developing your offering to meet the criteria for recognition.
PADI Adaptive Training opportunities have existed for years, but only in recent years has the rest of the world began to catch up and pay attention to this huge market of potential travelers and adventurers. Inclusivity is now getting attention in more and more locations globally, meaning access to destinations previously thought as off limits are now opening up to all.
By acting now, you can be part of the inclusivity revolution. Speaking personally, over 30 years ago diving changed my life forever. Within 24 hours I went from someone who would not leave the house to someone who found themself again and became dedicated to fighting for change. And I am not alone, head to https://www.padi.com/adaptive-service-facilities to see more stories of lives changed by the ocean and view the current network of Adaptive Service Facilities.
Apply for the Adaptive Service Facility recognition today! It may not only help you and your business but change someone else’s for life.
