Ensuring inclusion for all.
I was delighted to attend The Crown Estate’s Spring Reception at the Royal institute of British Architects. It was the second time that I had attended this event and like last year, it did not disappoint! The networking was very good and the food and drink available were both excellent. But what made this event a success, at least in my view, was the steps taken by The Crown Estate to ensure that my needs as a blind guest were met, which does not always happen at such events. So what are the keys to ensuring your event is accessible?
Inclusion starts with the invitation
Your event invitation is the first contact point. So it’s important to get it right. Whilst this is not an exhaustive list, here are some top tips:
- Ensure that the language used is both simple and inclusive.
- Ensure that the link to RSVP is accessible directly from the invitation and that it is easy to navigate.
- Offer as many methods of communication as possible, including telephone, text message and communication via a remote BSL interpreting service.
- Encourage respondents to come forward with any access requirements. Not doing so may cause disabled people to not discuss these with you, which could lead to a challenging event for all concerned.
Implementing access arrangements
Assuming an attendee has access requirements and has made you aware of these, the next step is to implement them. It of course goes without saying that some arrangements will be easier to implement than others. But as a starting point, have a conversation with the individual concerned to ensure you understand exactly what they need and that they know exactly what they can expect from you as an organiser and from the event itself. Remember that access arrangements may include support with getting to and from your event.
Whilst the above does not guarantee success, it is a significant step in the right direction.