England EDIA Resources

• England has been striving to make progress in promoting accessibility and mobility for individuals with disabilities in the past years. Legislation such as the Equality Act 2010 provides legal protections against discrimination and requires reasonable adjustments. 
• The transportation system in Oxford is reliable and efficient, while providing accessibility options for individuals with physical disabilities and mobility issues. Multiple train and bus networks connect Oxford to surrounding major cities, including London, Birmingham, and Cambridge. Train networks include Great Western Railway and Chilterm Railways, while bus networks include The Airline (for transportation to Oxford from Heathrow Airport), the Oxford Tube which provides 24-hour coach service between Oxford and London, the Oxford Bus Company, and Stagecoach. All Stagecoach and Oxford Bus Company buses are wheelchair accessible. All Stagecoach buses have low floor and easy access buses that can carry a limited number of wheelchair and approved mobility scooters. Passengers with disabilities are also able to get a Journey Assistance Card to signify to Stagecoach bus drivers that they require support to get on the bus. 
• Students travelling by train can request free GWR Passenger Assist or Chiltern Railways Assisted Travel for assistance with boarding, changing trains, luggage, and navigating stations. Assistance can be booked in advance, and students should check step-free access at each station involved in their journey rather than assuming that every route is accessible. 
• Advice centers, transport services, and travel aids are available to provide assistance and support at most sites. Accessible Britain at VisitBritain offers dedicated information on accessible tourism in the UK, including resources on accessible attractions, accommodations, transportation, and general travel tips. Oxfordshire’s County Council has an Accessible Transport webpage which shares more information about community transport services in the area, and information about their bookable transport service for individuals who are not able to access suitable public transport. 
• Some field trips may involve several hours of standing, extended walking, stairs, public transit use, and full-day excursions outside Oxford. 
• Worcester College at the University of Oxford: Efforts have been made to enhance accessibility in public spaces . The information below has been obtained from Worcester College’s Access Guide: 
• The College is located on a multi-level site. See the Worcester College Map. The main entrance into the College and to the Porters' Lodge have flat access, from where you can access the Dining Hall and Chapel via ramp or stairs. Accessible toilet facilities for visitors can be found in the Pump Quad and at the base of Staircase 6. The College has a large range of buildings of different ages and styles. Some of these buildings are more accessible than others. There is no lift provision to other floors of the oldest parts of the College, and currently the libraries, computer rooms, bar and JCR are up or down a steep flight of stairs. 
• Worcester College is across the street from the main bus station, and a 10-minute walk away from the train station.  
• Worcester College's published accommodation information does not list air conditioning as a standard bedroom feature.
• Oxford has a temperate climate with generally mild summers and rainfall throughout the year. According to the UK Met Office's long-term averages for Oxford, the average daily high in August is approximately 22.5°C, the average low is 13°C, and approximately 62 mm of rain falls during the month. Hotter conditions and heatwaves are still possible. Students should bring light and breathable layers, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and rain protection, and should monitor the forecast during the program. 
• Central Oxford is generally walkable, but its historic environment includes cobbled lanes and uneven surfaces, and individual colleges and attractions may include slopes, stairs, or long walking routes. Students who anticipate difficulty with scheduled walking or field trips should contact the Summer Abroad in advance. 
• If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by resources available at Worcester College, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than what the accommodation at Worcester College would cost.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, it is advised to research accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that are in close proximity to Worcester College. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website). 
• We encourage you to reach out about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs. 

Departing from Canada  

Sunflower Status  

Canada is a Sunflower-Recognized country. Which means, you can find individuals and organizations across various sectors who are trained to understand the meaning of the sunflower lanyard.  

Airports  

Canada has 27 airports that are sunflower recognized. 

 Students based at the University of Toronto are encouraged to visit Pearson Airport for departure. 72 hours before departure, students should visit the airports accessibility webpage and contact their mobility and accessibility customer service for more information regarding specific accessibility support.  

 Airlines  

 There are many airlines that depart or arrive in Canada.  

While we recommend Air Canada and West Jet, students are required to research the best airline for their situation. Summer Abroad has no official partnership with any airline.  

 Arriving in England 

Sunflower Status  

England is a Sunflower-Recognized country. Which means, you can find individuals and organizations across various sectors who are trained to understand the meaning of the sunflower lanyard.  

 Airports  

Students who are travelling to and from Antigua Barbuda, will be able to find the following airports that offer accessibility supports: 

 Birmingham Airport  

Bournemouth Airport  

Bristol Airport  

Cornwall Airport Newquay  

East Midlands Airport  

London Gatwick Airport  

Heathrow Airport  

Humberside Airport  

Leeds Bradford Airport  

Liverpool John Lennon Airport  

London City Airport  

London Southend Airport  

London Luton Airport  

Manchester Airport  

Norwich Airport  

Southampton Airport  

London Stansted Airport  

Tesside International Airport 

 Students are encouraged to visit the airport accessibility webpage for more information on specific accessibility supports at least 72 hours before departure.  

 Airlines  

There are many airlines that depart or arrive in England.  

Students are required to research the best airline for their situation. Summer Abroad has no official partnership with any airline.  

 Students are encouraged to check out our Sunflower Recognized Airlines Resources page for more information about the accessibility supports particular airlines offer and best tips.  

 For more information check out Hidden Disabilities Airports and Airlines Around the World. 

• In recent years, the UK government has made concerted effort to prioritize mental health on the national agenda, including policies and initiatives to address mental health concerns, such as the National Health Service (NHS) Mental Health Services and the Mental Health Act. Although it is still possible for some individuals to encounter stigma due to their mental health concerns, the overall climate for supporting mental health in England is increasingly supportive, and there are legal protections in place to safeguard individuals against discrimination. You may seek information and support for your mental health from NHS while you are in England. However, while accessing NHS services as a visitor, you may be required to pay medical fees in advance.  
• If you are bringing medicine with you into the UK, remember to check if your medicine contains a controlled drug. You may check the government guidance for travelling with medicine containing controlled drugs for more information. 
• If you have an existing or anticipated mental health condition that may affect your participation in a Summer Abroad course, please contact your Accessibility Advisor and the Summer Abroad office as early as possible, ideally before applying. Early planning gives the University and its international partners more time to explore appropriate academic and non-academic supports. 
• Students who require disability-related accommodations must register with U of T Accessibility Services and request a tailored Letter of Accommodation for Summer Abroad.  
• Summer Abroad students also have access to International SOS services through the University of Toronto, which can assist with locating medical and mental health professionals abroad and provide medical, security, emotional and logistical support. However, appointments may take time to arrange, and English-language providers may have limited availability. International SOS should therefore be treated as an additional in-country resource rather than a substitute for advance accommodation and continuity-of-care planning.  
• If you anticipate ongoing mental health needs, speak with your family doctor, counsellor or other healthcare provider before travelling to develop a continuity-of-care plan. Bring an adequate supply of prescribed medication, confirm that it is legal at the destination, and consider whether telehealth follow-up is available. 

• The overall climate for 2SLGBTQ+ people in England is generally inclusive and positive, as the British government has made significant progress in promoting LGBTQ+ rights, equality, and protection in recent years. For example, the Civil Partnership Act 2004, which came into force in 2005 across the UK, recognizes same-sex civil unions. Additionally, the Gender Recognition Act 2004 allows people with gender dysphoria to change their legal gender, and the Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in various areas of life.  
• Following the Equality Act 2010 and the Gender Recognition Act 2004, Worcester College and the University of Oxford developed related policies, such as the Equality and Diversity College Policy, to provide support and understanding the university community regarding gender identity and orientation issues, aiming to create an inclusive environment with dignity and respect that is free from discrimination, harassment, or victimization. 
• It is important to note that individual experiences can vary. In rural areas or smaller communities, the level of visibility and acceptance may differ from larger urban centers. It is always recommended to exercise personal judgment and consider local customs and laws when navigating LGBTQ+ issues in specific locations, especially while exploring the country on your own. Being aware of local attitudes and customs can help ensure a safe and positive experience during your time in England. 
• Students travelling with a passport containing an “X” gender identifier should verify entry and transit requirements before departure. The UK government recognizes that Canadian passports may contain M, F, or X gender identifiers, and UK Home Office guidance provides for non-M/F markers to be recorded as “other” in relevant immigration systems. However, the Government of Canada notes that it cannot guarantee entry into or transit through another country with an “X” identifier. Students should ensure that their airline and UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) information matches their passport and check the requirements of any transit country before booking travel. If they encounter a documentation issue, they should contact the Summer Abroad Office as early as possible. 
• As a U of T Summer Abroad student participant, you are encouraged to express your preferences and specific needs, as we are committed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for all students to the best of our ability, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity. If you have any concerns or need support related to 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to contact us, and we will assist you in finding the necessary resources and available accommodation options. 
• Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options. 

• England is relatively a safe country for women travellers, but it is important to remain cautious and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety. Violence towards women is always a risk when travelling and may take different forms dependent on the local context, laws, history, and culture. 
• The UK's strong legal protections address sexual violence and harassment, criminalizing rape, including spousal rape. While society generally understands the unfairness of treating people differently based on sex/gender, there is a need for increased sensitivity to broader sexual discrimination issues. As a visiting female student to England, you can expect to be treated with respect and equality in academic settings and beyond. However, individual experiences may vary based on personal circumstances and the specific environment. 
• Access to feminine products and contraceptives in England is quite accessible, with availability in supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers. Some pharmacies offer the contraceptive pill without a prescription, and you can view a list of pharmacies that offer this service by clicking here. Some pharmacies do not require a prescription for the emergency contraceptive pill (plan B) as well.  
• If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”)  

• According to Oxford City Council’s 2021 Census data, 54% of Oxford residents identified as White British, 17% as White non-British, and 29% as Black or another minority ethnic group, compared with 19% across England. In addition, 35% of Oxford residents were born outside the UK, including sizeable communities of people born in India, China, Pakistan, Poland, the United States, and many other countries. Summer Abroad students will therefore be studying in a city accustomed to international students and residents from diverse racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds. 
• Although there is a strong commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, the general racial climate in the country varies, and like any society, England is not immune to racial challenges and disparities. Racialized students may encounter stereotyping, assumptions about nationality or language, unwanted comments, verbal harassment, or other forms of discrimination.  
• Oxford’s large university and international population may mean that racialized students encounter greater ethnic diversity than in some smaller towns or rural areas of England. Students travelling independently outside Oxford may sometimes be more visibly identified as visitors or receive greater curiosity, but this should not be interpreted as meaning that smaller communities are necessarily less welcoming. Experiences will vary depending on the location, setting, and individual interaction. 
• Terminology around race and ethnicity may also differ from what students commonly hear in Canada. Students should be respectful of how individuals self-identify, while recognizing that discriminatory or racist behaviour does not need to be dismissed as a cultural difference.  
• If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

• Over the years, the religious landscape has become more diverse, with communities of individuals who practice Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Judaism, People in England generally have the freedom to practice their religion or belief systems openly. In the UK, religion does not heavily influence the government or legal system, and the government actively promotes religious freedom, supporting the right of individuals to practice their faith and belief systems without discrimination.  
• Christian students can attend services at Worcester College Chapel, as well as churches representing a range of denominations throughout Oxford. Muslim students can access the Central Oxford Mosque, which offers five daily congregational prayers and Friday prayer, as well as the mosque at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, which is open for daily congregational prayers. Jewish students can access the Oxford Jewish Congregation and Oxford Jewish Centre, which serves students, residents, and visitors and offers religious services and community activities. Hindu students can access the Oxford Hindu Temple and Community Centre in Headington, which opened its permanent mandir in 2026. Oxford also has Sikh, Buddhist, and other faith communities. Students should check service times and visitor requirements directly with the relevant organization before attending. 
• Although Oxford has a broad range of faith communities, some places of worship are outside the city centre and may require a bus, taxi, or additional travel time from Worcester College. Services may also be held primarily in languages other than English or have specific expectations regarding dress, head coverings, footwear, seating, or advance registration. 
• If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience. 

• Kosher food is widely available in England, with kosher food options being available in supermarkets. For restaurants and cafes, it is advised to do your research and call ahead, if necessary. Online resources are available to help guide individuals and find available kosher food options, including the Oxford Chabad Society’s kosher guide, and the Oxford Jewish Congregation’s kosher guide. 
• It is easy to access vegetarian food in England, and the Happy Cow website is a great tool to filter restaurants in the area which have vegetarian options. It is advised to always seek clarification if you are unsure, such as ordering a soup and making sure that the broth is vegetarian. There are multiple online guides that provide vegetarian restaurant recommendations in Oxford, such as “The Definitive Guide to Oxfordshire’s Best Veggie/Vegan Restaurants” as well as Oxford’s Top 10 Vegan and Vegetarian Spots.