Meet Ashlee Dolby: MediStays Expert Accessibility Reviewer

Since launching MediStays website in 2017, verifying the accessibility of our accommodation partners has been a top priority. This ensures that everyone can find the right accommodation for their needs. This is of particular importance for guests with specific accessibility requirements. Following many years of work, our Accommodation Partnerships Team are thrilled to welcome Ashlee Dolby as MediStays official Accessibility Reviewer.

Who is Ashlee Dolby?

Ashlee Dolby is a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. She is deeply committed to improving accessibility standards in accommodation. Ash’s personal experiences give her unique insights into the challenges faced by those with specific mobility requirements.

Ash lives with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA), a rare genetic disease that affects her nervous system and mobility. Despite the challenges of this diagnosis, Ash is determined to make a difference. We also love that Ash has a passion for the people we serve at MediStays, and brings years of experience working in the hotel and hospitality sector and for Able Foods! Her knowledge and understanding of our community make Ash an invaluable part of the MediStays team.

What Does an Accessibility Reviewer Do?

As an Accessibility Reviewer at MediStays, Ashlee plays an important role. Her primary responsibility is to evaluate and assess the accessibility features of our accommodation partners. From hotels to self-contained apartments and our own properties, Ash ensures that MediStays accommodation partners meet the highest standards of verified accessibility for all guests. This ranges from people on a medical journey who require a step-free property and easy access shower, through to guests with high physical accessibility requirements and those who mobilise in a wheelchair.

Using MediStays established framework, Ash examines a range of features during her reviews, including:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: Ensuring safe and easy access to all areas of the property.
• Walk-In Showers: Providing convenience for people recovering from surgery, frail and elderly guests.
• Grab Rails and Support Bars: Essential for safety and stability.
• Clear Pathways: Making sure there are no obstacles that could hinder movement.
• Height of Amenities: Ensuring all amenities are within reach for everyone.

By focusing on these key elements, Ashlee guarantees that each accommodation is both accessible and comfortable.

‘I’m excited to blend my hotel industry experience with my passion for accessibility at MediStays. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make sure hotels are not just welcoming but truly prioritising access and inclusion for everyone.’

– Ash Dolby

The Importance of Accessibility Reviews

Accessibility reviews are essential for MediStays community of guests and their loved ones on a health and disability journey. They provide peace of mind for those who need trusted accommodation features. Without these additional checks, finding suitable lodging can be a stressful and challenging experience, especially for people who require wheelchair access or other mobility needs.

At MediStays, we understand that many accommodation providers may advertise themselves as ”accessible”. However, these features are often not verified and will not always meet the specific needs of every individual. There’s a lot of inconsistency of the term “accessibility” and what this actually means, so that’s where Ashlee’s expertise comes into play. By navigating properties through her lens of a wheelchair user, Ash ensures that accommodation truly does meet accessibility standards.

By conducting thorough reviews, Ashlee adds value to our existing audits by identifying strengths of individual properties and opportunities for guest stays. You can read more about MediStays approach to accessibility here.

What Sets MediStays Apart?

MediStays is committed to offering high-quality, accessible accommodation for all individuals. Ashlee’s work is an integral part of achieving this goal. We understand the unique needs of people with disabilities and those on a medical journey and work tirelessly to meet them.

Our focus on accessibility means:

1. Reliable Reviews: Ashlee’s evaluations provide accurate and detailed information about each property’s accessibility features.
2. Customised Solutions: Our Care Navigators offer tailored accommodation options to suit the individual requirements of each guest.
3. Comprehensive Listings: Our website provides a wide range of accessible accommodations for different needs.

‘When you’re away from home and in need of accommodation, having the comforts and accessibility you require becomes crucial. Personally reviewing properties helps ensure accessibility standards are met and fosters continued improvement.’

– Ash Dolby

Walk-In Showers and Wheelchair Accessible Bathrooms

One of the key aspects of Ashlee’s accessibility reviews is assessing bathroom facilities. For many individuals, having a wheelchair-accessible bathroom is essential. This feature ensures independence and safety.

MediStays specialises in accommodations with:

• Walk-In Showers: These are ideal for people recovering from surgery and for frail and elderly guests. They offer ease of access and prevent potential falls. Walk-in showers also come with non-slip surfaces and adjustable showerheads, making them perfect for individuals with varying needs.
• Wheelchair Accessible Bathrooms: Designed with ample space for manoeuvering, these bathrooms provide comfort and functionality. They often include features such as lower sinks, roll-in showers, and handrails. This ensures that individuals using wheelchairs can use the facilities without assistance.

You can read more about MediStays accessible bathroom categories here.

Ashlee Dolby’s Journey with Friedreich’s Ataxia

Ashlee’s journey with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) is both inspiring and enlightening. FA is a degenerative condition that affects coordination and balance. Despite these challenges, Ashlee remains committed to advocacy work. She uses her experiences to inform her reviews and make meaningful changes in accessibility standards.

Her dedication to improving accessibility comes from her personal understanding of the difficulties faced by individuals with disabilities. Ashlee’s reviews aim to make traveling and accommodation stress-free for people with mobility challenges.

How MediStays Supports NDIS Participants

Everyday MediStays proudly support participants of the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) with trusted accommodation. We understand the importance of providing accessible accommodations that align with NDIS goals. Our services cater to individuals with individual requirements, ensuring they have the necessary resources for comfortable living. Our accommodation partnerships and listings are carefully selected to provide maximum convenience and support for individuals with disabilities.

Why Choose MediStays?

Choosing MediStays means choosing a team dedicated to accessibility. Our expert reviewer, Ash Dolby, works closely with our incredible Supply team, including Allyson Osborne, Hind Raghouli and our Care Navigators. Together, they ensure that MediStays accommodation partners are thoroughly verified to give our guests peace of mind when they need it most. We prioritise safety, comfort and accessibility in every property we list.

Whether you’re recovering from surgery or living with a disability, MediStays has the perfect accommodation for you.

With Ashlee’s reviews, you can trust that you’re making the best choice for your needs.

Learn More

To learn more about MediStays and our accessibility reviews, search accommodation on our website. You can also find more about Ashlee Dolby and her work with the NDIS on the NDIS website.

Discover how MediStays is committed to making independent living accessible to everyone.