Published by Neil Thompson, 31st July 2025
An extensive UK-wide research project into accessibility and inclusion across the business events sector has been launched to increase awareness and drive meaningful change, with the support of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events.
ICC Wales in partnership with The Business of Events have joined forces to gather detailed insight from venues and organisers nationwide to build a clearer picture of current challenges, practices, and ambitions.
With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) now in force across the EU, venues and organisers in the international events sector face growing pressure to ensure they are welcoming and fully inclusive for all delegates.
Supported by award-winning disability inclusion and accessibility expert Dr Shani Dhanda, the research invites venues and planners to take part in a short, anonymous survey, sharing honest insights into how accessibility is currently approached and where improvements are needed.
Dr Shani Dhanda said: “Accessibility isn’t a nice-to-have – it’s a necessity. True inclusion starts with listening, and this research is an important first step in understanding the current reality of our industry. By taking part, venues and organisers can help uncover the gaps, challenge assumptions, and build events that work for everyone.”
The findings will feed into a report due to be launched later this year, featuring research and commentary from delegates with both visible and non-visible disabilities. The goal is to provide actionable insight that venues, organisers, and suppliers can use to create lasting change – rooted in lived experience and real-world application.
“While the UK is no longer part of the EU, the European Accessibility Act sets a new benchmark that venues simply can’t ignore – especially those working with international clients. But raising standards isn’t just about compliance; it’s about listening. If we want to deliver truly inclusive experiences, we must listen to those with lived experience of disability and be honest about where we are now. I urge UK venues to take part in this research, share their challenges, and be part of the change.”
Julie Hammond, Chief Executive, ICC Wales and The Celtic Collection
The whitepaper will align with the EAA and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), covering areas such as venue infrastructure, digital access, sensory needs, neurodiversity, and emerging AI-driven solutions. It will also draw on ICC Wales’s experience of hosting accessible events such as the Kidz to Adultz exhibition and the SQLBits Data Conference.
