We want to talk about accessibility, especially from a neurodivergent point of view, for anyone involved in running large-scale or in-person events. ‘Accessibility’ isn't just about ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets anymore. It’s about ensuring equitable access for all, including us neurodivergent folk.
It’s 2024, this shouldn’t be rocket science but a surprising number of events and experiences still get this wrong.
If you’re involved in running large-scale or in-person events, read on.
Understanding your neurodivergent guests
Neurodivergent brains are completely individual, much like fingerprints. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to accessibility. However, there are some steps that most places can take to help most people in some ways. The first step is thinking about how your guests will be getting to the event and the stuff that happens before then.
Preparation and Information
For ADHD brains, the preparation stage is super important. It’s about planning and having as much information as possible about what they're likely to encounter. Minimising unknowns helps us feel less anxious and more in control of ourselves and the situations we're in.
Detailed information: Provide clear and comprehensive details about the event. This includes the schedule, venue layout, and what attendees can expect, such as noise levels, lighting conditions, and any potential sensory triggers.
Advance notice: Send out information well in advance to give neurodivergent guests ample time to process and plan.
Contact points: Make it easy for people to get in touch and make specific requests. Sometimes, we don’t know what we need until we encounter a problem, so being able to reach out for support is crucial.
Sensory considerations
The sensory experience is a really important part of accessibility. For instance, our team loves live music and performance, but actual festivals themselves can be hugely overwhelming. Sensory overload is a common challenge for neurodivergent brains.
Quiet spaces: Provide designated quiet areas where attendees can take a break from the sensory stimuli. These spaces should be easily accessible and clearly marked.
Controlled environments: Offer areas with controlled lighting and sound to help those sensitive to these elements.
Flexible seating: Ensure there are seating options that allow attendees to sit away from crowded or noisy areas if needed.
Personalised Support
Providing personalised support can make a huge difference. ADHDers and other neurodivergent folk sometimes don’t know what they actually need until confronted by a specific situation. This means we might need very personalised support, and a one-size-fits-all just doesn’t cut it.
Staff training: Train your staff to be aware of neurodivergent needs and how to assist attendees effectively. This includes understanding how to communicate clearly and calmly, and also to understand that not all neurodivergent guests will need the same support or act in the same way.
Accessible communication: Use multiple methods of communication (visual, auditory, written) to cater to different preferences and needs.
Flexible policies: Be flexible with your policies to accommodate individual needs. For example, allow for early entry or provide alternative routes to avoid crowded areas.
Feedback and continuous improvement
Creating an accessible event is an ongoing process. Gathering feedback from neurodivergent attendees can provide valuable insights into what worked well and what can be improved. Even if you get something wrong first time, listening to your guests lets you get it right next time.
Feedback mechanisms: Provide easy ways for attendees to give feedback, both during and after the event. This can be through surveys, suggestion boxes, or direct communication.
Continuous learning: Use the feedback to make continuous improvements to your accessibility strategies. Stay informed about best practices and emerging trends in neurodiversity and accessibility (for example, by bookmarking our blog!)
Making events accessible for ADHDers isn't simply a matter of compliance; it's about creating an inclusive environment where everyone can participate and enjoy. By understanding the unique needs of neurodivergent attendees and implementing thoughtful, flexible solutions, you’ll actually be creating an event that is welcoming and accessible for everyone.
And that's the kind of event we'd like to attend!
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