Building Inclusive, Accessible, and Trauma-Informed Conferences: A Guide for Event Planners
This course provides a comprehensive guide for planners to design events that accommodate diverse audiences and foster safe, supportive environments. Participants will gain insights into embedding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) principles into every aspect of event planning, from logistical setup to content delivery. Whether organizing in-person or virtual conferences, this course equips planners with the skills and strategies needed to ensure all participants feel welcome, respected, and safe.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ?
Laying the Groundwork for Inclusion and Accessibility
Overview: This module explores the core principles of designing inclusive and accessible conferences, focusing on how event planners can create diverse and welcoming environments for all attendees.
Putting Accessibility Into Practice
Overview: Learn practical steps to make conferences accessible for all participants, including those with disabilities, and recognize specific challenges in hybrid and virtual events.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Conference Environment
Overview: Explore how trauma-informed practices can shape conference spaces, helping to create environments that are psychologically safe and free from triggering content.
Embedding Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion into Conference Operations
Overview: Learn how to embed Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) principles in conference planning and avoid exclusionary practices, especially in educational settings.
Designing Virtual and Hybrid Conferences for All
Overview: Explore how to create virtual and hybrid conference environments that are inclusive and accessible, ensuring all participants can engage meaningfully.cription Here
Participants will apply their learning by developing a comprehensive, actionable plan for a future conference. This plan will incorporate key elements of accessibility, ED&I, trauma-informed practices, and psychological safety. The project will involve creating event guidelines, accessible materials, and a strategy for virtual or hybrid formats.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
- Be able to design and host fully inclusive and accessible conferences.
- Understand how to create trauma-sensitive and psychologically safe environments.
- Implement ED&I principles effectively in the operational and organizational planning of conferences.
- Recognize and remove barriers for diverse participants in both in-person and virtual formats.
- Develop event materials, including PowerPoint presentations, that are accessible to all.
