Inclusive and Accessible Events
Overview
As event organisers, we know the power events can have on attendees whether it be that they take away new connections, knowledge, or memories. Everyone deserves to experience events fully and safely.
Our DEI working group have been committing to championing, creating awareness of accessibility at events, and consulting experts in the field to hone our approach.
At our core is collaboration, which we believe is integral to creating a truly accessible experience. It’s listening to those with lived experiences and creating the space for voices to be heard. This was truly brought to life when we were tasked in producing a Disability and Equality Awards event in which two thirds of attendees had complex disabilities and needs. Working closely with a group of accessibility champions, we were extremely proud to create a safe space for the disabled community. It was a privilege to work on the experience, for which we won multiple awards including Gold: Diversity and inclusion, and an eye opener on how we do things inclusively.
Breaking down barriers doesn’t happen by accident, it takes intentional planning and continuous improvement.
Accessibility and inclusion are broad ranging terms with plenty of technical definitions, but the overall goal is to remove barriers to participation. When we think about ‘access’ we tend to think about ‘disability’ but accessibility and inclusion go far beyond this. We all experience the world in different ways and we are all inherently unique in our own identities so it is not just about removing physical barriers. For events, it means providing equal access to the same networking opportunities, educational content, celebrations, and conversations for every person regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.
Collaboration is at the centre
We partner with a DEI consultant to provide specialist training for the whole team which in turn helps us to advise clients on creating more accessible events.
We can assist you in your accessibility journey at every stage offering event services such as venue finding, accessible event websites, custom stage designs, live captions, BSL interpretation, and mapping out the attendee journey.