We have been working to make coastal beaches in Poland accessible to people with various levels of mobility, including individuals with disabilities, caregivers of children, seniors, and those recovering from injuries. Despite our extensive educational efforts, recommendations, and consultations with local authorities, many beaches were still not adapted to the needs of different visitors, even at a basic level. Based on our experiences and conversations with local authorities and activists, we noticed a lack of designated individuals responsible for addressing this issue, a universal architectural plan for implementation, and a certification that would promote and confirm the actions taken by local governments.

We created and implemented the only certification program in Poland that defines the criteria for a fully accessible beach for everyone, regardless of their level of mobility. We conducted consultations on the certification criteria with accessibility experts, activists, local governments, and professionals in architecture and construction. We provided training to beach managers on the subject of accessibility and certification. We also trained individuals to conduct beach audits and monitor investments carried out by coastal municipalities. As part of the project, we conducted one social audit. We launched the “Beach Accessible to All” campaign to promote the concept of accessible beaches and the certification program. Our goal was to encourage new local governments to develop their communities in this direction and disseminate information about the state of Polish beaches. In selected municipalities interested in certification, we organized dialogue sessions about accessible beaches which were attended by representatives of local authorities, NGOs, and residents.

The project was carried out in partnership with the Municipality of Jastarnia, with whom we have been cooperating on beach accessibility for several years. Besides a few other municipalities. Jastarnia participated in the pilot implementation of the beach certification program for individuals with diverse needs, including those with disabilities. Thanks to this initiative, in 2022, Poland saw the first three certified beach entrances accessible to everyone (in Jastarnia, Sopot, and Gdynia). The program received significant interest, so we hope that more such beaches will be created in the future. The certification program continues to be developed and implemented.