To mark the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ABM, a leading provider of integrated facility and aviation services, has announced a series of new developments in its ongoing commitment to embedding accessibility and inclusion into its company culture.
A standout advancement is the appointment of Samantha Saunders, ABM’s Head of Assisted Services, to the UK’s Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group. Established by the UK Government, and spearheaded by Baroness Grey-Thompson, a current member of the House of Lords and retired Paralympian, this initiative aims to remove barriers in air travel for passengers with disabilities.
Samantha’s expertise and passion for accessibility plays a crucial role in helping ABM deliver inclusive advancements; not only contributing to ABM’s success as a leading supplier of airport mobility services, but ensuring inclusion takes centre stage across the broader business. Most recently, Samantha has been involved with ABM’s charity partner, Colostomy UK, to create innovative learning materials that explain how adding simple fixtures and fittings in cubicles can transform facilities into ‘Stoma Friendly’ toilets.
A further milestone for ABM is the appointment of Andrew Lewinton, ABM’s QHSE Director, as the Executive Sponsor of its employee resource Impact Group for Disabled Team Members and Carers.
The Impact Group was formed to drive meaningful change by steering the organisation towards greater inclusivity, creating environments that are truly accessible for all, and enhancing the diversity of the ABM community. Through collaboration and advocacy, the group ensures every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive within ABM and beyond. Andrew’s leadership will continue to support the group’s mission to embed accessibility and inclusion into the business’ culture.
Looking ahead to 2025, ABM is working towards achieving Disability Confident Leader status under the UK Government’s Disability Confident Initiative. This accreditation—the highest in the programme—will reflect ABM’s dedication to instilling disability confidence across all aspects of its operations.
Samantha Saunders commented: “Together, we can create a more inclusive travel experience for all. I am incredibly proud to be part of ABM, delivering on our commitment to ensuring accessible travel and an inclusive place to work.
“Joining the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group is an incredible opportunity for ABM to champion change in the aviation industry.”
ABM specialises in facility services and aviation solutions including cleaning and security services in healthcare, aviation, commercial, critical, retail & leisure, life sciences, transportation and logistics sectors.
The company has over 12,500 employees across the UK and Ireland, with clients including Transport for London, London Heathrow, London Gatwick and multiple shopping centres and commercial buildings across the country.
Andrew Lewinton concludes: “Accessibility and inclusion are not just values at ABM—they are integral to our success. As we work towards our ambition towards greater accessibility and inclusion, we are committed to demonstrating disability confidence from the inside out.”
