Accessibility
Creating an inclusive event goes beyond the physical and digital—it’s about equipping yourself and your team with the knowledge and skills to assist attendees with disabilities. There’s nothing worse than breaking into a sweat over challenges you're unprepared for! This week, we explore the importance of accessibility training, key topics to cover, and useful organisations to get you started.
Why Accessibility Matters: Empathy and Inclusivity
Making your event accessible is crucial. Imagine navigating your event blindfolded, listening to a talk with every third word missing, or being unable to access the catering area during breaks. It’s exhausting and disappointing.
For attendees with disabilities, these scenarios are all too common. They often face barriers that make attending events stressful rather than enjoyable. As event planners, it’s our job to ensure that all attendees, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully and comfortably. Accessibility isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s about creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. According to the World Health Organization, about 24% of the UK population has some form of disability. That's sixteen million people!
Key Topics for Accessibility Training
Understanding Disabilities: Staff should learn about different types of disabilities and their potential impact on attendees’ experiences. This includes mobility impairments, visual and hearing impairments, cognitive disabilities, and more.
Communication Skills: Training should cover effective and respectful communication, including using plain language and being patient.
Assistive Technologies: Staff should be familiar with common assistive devices and technologies that attendees might use.
Emergency Procedures: It’s crucial to have plans in place for assisting attendees with disabilities during emergencies.
Service Animals: Understanding service animals' role and how to accommodate them properly is essential. For example, avoid patting or fussing over the dogs and ensure water is available.
Customer Service: Emphasise the importance of treating all attendees with respect and providing excellent service.
Developing an Effective Training Program
Training Methods: Use a mix of in-person workshops, online courses, and webinars to cater to different learning preferences.
Training Frequency: Regular training sessions should be run especially before major events.
Expert Involvement: Partner with accessibility experts or organisations to ensure comprehensive training.
Interactive Elements: Incorporate role-playing and hands-on demonstrations to make the training more engaging.
Implementing the Training Program
Scheduling: Plan training sessions well in advance of the event.
Incentivising Participation: Offer incentives like certificates or recognition to motivate staff and volunteers.
Monitoring and Feedback: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the training and gather feedback to make improvements.
Final Thoughts
Handling last-minute accessibility issues doesn't have to feel like assembling IKEA furniture without instructions. With some preparation and the right resources, you can ensure your event is inclusive and welcoming for everyone. The goal is to create an environment where all attendees feel valued and accommodated. So, next time an accessibility challenge arises, you'll be ready to handle it with poise and confidence.
Useful Training Providers and Organisations
Disability Rights UK Training: Offers various courses focused on disability awareness, inclusion, and accessibility.
Business Disability Forum Training: Provides comprehensive training programs and consultancy services on accessibility and inclusivity.
Scope Training: Offers training and workshops to help organisations become more inclusive.
Mencap Training: Provides training focused on supporting individuals with learning disabilities.
The National Autistic Society (NAS Training): Provides programs designed to help organisations understand autism.
Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB Training): Offers training to help organisations become more inclusive of blind and partially sighted individuals.
Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID): Provides training on deaf awareness and accessible communication.
