AIRPORT staff are working with disability groups to help make Leeds Bradford as accessible as possible.

The airport has been liaising with a number of groups such as the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Leeds Autism Services, the William Merritt Centre, Little Hiccups, Aspire and AVSED.

The exercise, which has been going on for about a year, has included behind the scenes tours and has given passengers the chance to talk about the assistance they need and improvements that could be made.

The airport has also been training staff in the best ways to support people with disabilities and 'hidden' disabilities, such as autism.

Helen Pearce, Head of Passenger Services, said: "We have learnt a huge amount from all of the organisations we have worked with over the last year and their time has been invaluable. I’d like to say a big thanks to all involved in the Disability Awareness work undertaken so far.

"Our aim is to make the passenger experience as smooth as possible for everyone and that very much includes people with all disabilities requiring assistance when travelling through the airport. We have listened to all feedback and have implemented everything possible in order to reduce anxieties around travelling, which can seem daunting to those who have a disability, especially when that disability may be ‘hidden’."

Passengers who think they may need extra help can visit www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk/at-the-airport/special-assistance ahead of travelling.

Debbie Linford, Engagement Officer for Guide Dogs for the Blind, said: "These familiarisation visits are valuable for both the owners and their dogs; getting everybody used to the airport environment. This helps to take away some of the unknown. Just because somebody has lost their sight, it doesn’t mean they have to lose their holidays and this partnership really does help people feel at ease."

Pete Hughes, of Leeds Autism Services, added: "People with autism related conditions may find new or unusual situations anxiety inducing. A big step to overcoming these anxieties is to furnish people with clear accurate information on what to expect, and this is what we have initially focused on. "

Last November a wheelchair user claimed he had received “humiliating and degrading” treatment when boarding a plane at Leeds Bradford.

Joshua Gardner, 20, was carried up some steps in his wheelchair by two members of staff when the airport’s usual lifting equipment was unavailable. LBA said one of two ambulift vehicles on site had been out of action and defended the manoeuvre as "safe and standard".