B. Listening: Rewilding The Workplace
Broadsword's Guide to Planning Accessible Events
Accessibility and inclusion are broad ranging terms with plenty of technical definitions, but the overall goal is to remove barriers to participation. 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. Nothing will land better for an attendee than being met by an event team who are secure and comfortable with equitable thinking, inclusive attitudes, language, and behaviours.
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. Consider an event from different perspectives and imagine how it would feel if you were experiencing the event through a different lens. 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, yet often accessibility is not considered. Only by actively engaging different perspectives can we challenge and stretch thinking and enrich the experience of our attendees, no matter their background. 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.
What’s included in these guides?
- The go-to accessible venue checklist
- Actionable tips and guidance for planning more inclusively across planning, promotion, and production of events
- Spotlight on the venues and suppliers leading the way on accessibility and inclusion
- An interview with an access and inclusion educator
- Foster your understanding of accessibility best practices and foundations to get started
- Read how Broadsword, as an event agency, is approaching accessible event planning and inclusive practices
Read below:
Understanding accessible event planning: A Handbook for Accessible Events
Our diversity, equity and inclusion working group have been committing to championing, creating awareness of accessibility at events, and consulting experts in the field to hone our approach. At Broadsword, we know the importance of a conversation.
Let’s talk about how we can create more inclusive event experiences together.
The above flip book can also be downloaded as a PDF. If the PDF is not accessible to your screen reader, don’t hesitate to contact dei@wearebroadsword.com to for a write up of the content.
