UK-based meetings management agency Inntel is concentrating on addressing challenges that conference and event delegates who are neurodivergent may experience, ranging from the layout of physical spaces to how activities within events occur. Examples include:
- Delegates finding themselves sitting for long periods without a break and not having spaces where they can listen but still have some freedom of movement.
- Sensory overload from bright lights, crowded spaces, and loud noise-levels leading to feeling overwhelmed and not having any quiet spaces to relax and refocus.
- Poor signage making it difficult to navigate an event.
- Lack of inclusive catering choices.
Inntel has partnered with Eventwell – a UK social enterprise dedicated to educating, campaigning and supporting better mental wellbeing. The partners believe it is vital that neurodivergent delegates – and indeed all delegates – are encouraged to just be themselves. Other examples of techniques and considerations that can be introduced to enhance a conference to make it a successful and inclusive experience for all delegates can include:
- Using colour-coded wrist bands or lanyards for delegates to signal their comfort levels for talking or interacting with other conference participants.
- Setting up ‘Topic tables’ as conversation-starter points and ‘Networking stops’ so delegates are clear these are for those that want to network.
On partnering with Inntel, Helen Moon, CEO, Eventwell says: “The landscape of the event experience is shifting and moving towards a more human experience ideal, which is essential for the future of in-person events. The neurodivergent community are now speaking up in terms of what they would like to see become commonplace to allow them to experience events in a similar way to others, but at the same time recognising that any experience is very individual. We are delighted to be working with Inntel to support them in their vision and commitment, and that of their clients, for more inclusive and accessible human centric event environments, for all attendees.” Douglas O’Neill (pictured), CEO, Inntel adds: “As a service brand that thrives on being agile and innovative, we’re committed to creating the right kind of engagement with neurodivergent people – increasingly being recognised in business organisations as exceptional problem-solvers and creative thinkers.” For more about Eventwell, please go to: https://eventwell.org/
