4 minute read
EVERYONE'S INVITED INCLUDING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
WITH LAURA GRUNFELD
ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION ON YOUR WEBSITE
People with disabilities need quite a lot of information so that they can properly prepare to attend your event.
At this time of year many events are updating the information on their website for the coming season. What information should be posted about your Access Program for patrons with disabilities? Some events simply say “We are fully accessible. Write if you have questions.” Other events will give every detail about their program. Most fall somewhere in between.
WHY POST DETAILED INFORMATION?
In my experience, people with disabilities need quite a lot of information so that they can properly prepare to attend your event. I have never had a complaint that there was “too much accessibility information” on the website, only that there was too little.
One way to protect your event and better serve your patrons is to give accurate and thorough information about your accessibility services. More information means fewer emails in your inbox and saves the patrons from having to wait for your response. Patrons want prompt replies, but we sometimes get behind when we get close to the event and are busy with many tasks.
WHEN TO POST THE INFORMATION?
When should you post this information? As soon as possible. Many events share accessibility information at the last minute, just before the festival. Patrons with disabilities need as much, if not more time to plan, than patrons without disabilities. If you have posted any information about the coming year’s festival, your accessibility information should be up there too.
Post what information you have and then it’s okay to say, “We are still in the planning stages so check back for additional updates.” Or “This is last year’s information so check back for updates for the coming year’s event.” Knowing what you did last year helps a lot!
WHAT INFORMATION TO POST?
What information will your patrons with disabilities need? One way to present the information is outlined here. Each program is different, and you may need to show more or less information depending on the size of your event and other factors. This outline is a place to start.
How to get questions answered and make comments before, during and after the event.
Deadline(s) to request special accommodations. E.g., how and when to request a sign language interpreter, assistive listening device, permission to bring a standard height folding chair through security, etc.
How to get to and into the event for people who need accessible parking, accessible drop off, accessible shuttle service, etc.
Services for patrons with mobility disabilities. This is also a good section to include a description of the terrain and distances a patron will travel to get around the event.
Services for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Services for patrons who are blind or have low vision.
Services for patrons with brain-based conditions. This may mean making accommodations like providing a Social Story, permission to use reserved viewing areas, or offering a Calm Space for people with PTSD, anxiety, Autism and other conditions.
Services for patrons with medical conditions. This may include permission to bring in certain foods or medical gear, providing refrigeration for medicines, etc.
Service animal policy and procedures.
Other Access Program information.
Remember, more information will help the patron plan better and you won’t have to answer so many emails. It’s a win-win!
Everyone’s Invited, LLC, founded by Laura Grunfeld, is winner of the gold level “Best Accessibility Program,” for the 2018, 2019, and 2022 IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards. Laura writes a regular column helping producers make their events accessible to people with disabilities. She has worked many festivals across the nation and readers can learn more about her event accessibility consulting, training, and production company at www.EveryonesInvited.com and www.linkedin.com/in/lauragrunfeld. Suggest topics or ask questions by writing to Laura@EveryonesInvited.com.
© Laura Grunfeld, Everyone’s Invited, LLC, October 2023.
