This method helps you make sure your engagement events themselves are accessible and inclusive – not just its outcomes. 

It is simply the right thing to do ethically. But it will also give you better results, that are more representative of the people you are designing for.

Here are some basic guidelines for both online and in-person events:

• If you use visual prompts, make sure there is high enough contrast between text and background colour
• Use alternative text descriptions (alt text) for images
• Send out an agenda and timetable in advance, including when any breaks are planned
• Some people might ask to see more details ahead of time
• Be flexible and allow more time for activities if you need to
• If someone doesn’t speak the language you are running the sessions in, you will need an interpreter
• Offer options and alternatives to the group before as well as during the session – some people might not want to tell you about their needs in front of other attendees

Online sessions

• If you are planning a session, workshop or other event online, check beforehand that your technology is accessible to everyone you’ve invited
• Some of the tools in this guide use virtual whiteboards like Mural or Miro. Some aspects of these can be difficult to use for some people.
• Use a variety of different-shaped sticky notes, so anyone who is colourblind can tell them apart
• Put a grid in the background to make it easier for people to find their way around the board
• Ask everyone to put their own name on their cursor
• Hiding cursors can help prevent motion sickness

In-person sessions

• Make sure the environment is accessible and comfortable for everyone. Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users and therapy pets? Also think about noise, light and temperature
• Let people sit if they need to. And if you’re sticking things on the wall, put them at an accessible height for everyone
• Use a variety of different-shaped sticky notes