Beaches Resorts has announced the extension of its Advanced Certified Autism Centre (ACAC) accreditation to 2023 as part of its expanded commitment to families with children on the autism spectrum, ensuring a safe, fun and comfortable holiday experience tailored to their needs.
Building upon an existing partnership with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) – the global leader in cognitive disorder training and certification – Beaches Resorts continues to be the world’s first and only ACAC resort company, ensuring every family can enjoy the award-winning Luxury Included® holiday experience.
As part of this ACAC recertification process, Beaches Resorts’ team members in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos will participate in advanced autism training virtually over the coming months, with an emphasis on the resorts’ key touch point areas including kids’ camps, entertainment, reception, food and beverage and watersports operations. This recertification process will also include training of team members at the Airport Arrival Lounge in Montego Bay, Jamaica and Providenciales, Turks & Caicos which offer the first point of contact for Beaches Resorts’ guests.
The all-inclusive family resort company, in collaboration with IBCCES, will also launch a Sensory Stimulation Guide for guests with sensory needs, providing comfort and an understanding of what to expect in each designated area of the resort. Designated Low Sensory Areas will also be identified at all resorts, allowing guests to find comfort in designated spaces should they need a break from sensory stimulation. These locations will be easily identifiable with resort maps, onsite signage and in pre-travel planning materials.
“As the first resort company in the world to attain the distinguished ACAC credentials, we’re proud of the work we’ve accomplished to-date and look forward to finding new ways to demonstrate our commitment to autism acceptance and inclusion while creating an autism-friendly environment,” said Joel Ryan, Group Manager of Themed Entertainment and Children’s Activities. “As the best-in-class luxury holiday experience, we have always strived for an inclusive experience that allows parents to have confidence in selecting our resorts, knowing their children can feel comfortable and safe, have fun and make lifelong memories.”
In 2017, Beaches Resorts became the first resort company in the world to be recognised by IBCCES as a Certified Autism Centre (CAC) and, as part of their Sesame Street partnership, also introduced the character Julia – a four-year-old girl on the autism spectrum, who brought an exclusive new activity to Beaches Resorts: Amazing Art with Julia. Two years later, the resort company then became the first to attain the Advanced Certified Autism Centre (ACAC) certification, recognised by IBCCES.
“Like the rest of the world, we know families and autistic individuals are looking forward to travelling, visiting new places, and making new memories as soon as they are able to. They are also looking for organisations that are trained and certified in autism, particularly leaders like Beaches Resorts, who go above and beyond,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman and CEO. “The professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm of the team at Beaches Resorts is second to none, and we are thrilled to continue our partnership to provide long-lasting support and impact.”
