The Future of Events is Neuroinclusive: A Practical Guide for Organisers

3 Mar

The events industry is at a turning point. While accessibility has long been a consideration, true inclusivity—especially for neurodivergent attendees—has often been overlooked. Yet, with an estimated 15–20% of the population being neurodivergent, making events more accessible is not just an ethical imperative—it is an opportunity.

New research shows that 85% of neurodivergent individuals have actively avoided events that were not neuroinclusive. That is a significant portion of your potential audience missing out—not because they do not want to attend, but because the environment is not set up for them to succeed.

The good news? Neuroinclusive events do not have to be expensive or complicated. Small, simple changes can make a world of difference. This blog introduces the Neurodiversity in Events Checklist, launched at ICCA Leeds, and provides practical, cost-free steps event organisers can take right now.

Why Neuroinclusion Matters in Events

Events thrive on engagement. When attendees feel comfortable, they contribute more, connect better, and leave with a positive experience. However, neurodivergent individuals often face obstacles that make attending an event stressful or even impossible.

From sensory overwhelm (bright lights, loud background noise, and unpredictable schedules) to unclear communication and rigid structures, these barriers can turn an exciting event into an exhausting challenge.

Neuroinclusive events benefit everyone—not just neurodivergent attendees. When you design with flexibility, clarity, and accessibility in mind, you create a smoother, more enjoyable experience for all participants.

Common Barriers in Events

To understand how to improve, it is important to recognise the most common challenges neurodivergent attendees face at events:

Sensory Overload – Harsh lighting, loud music, crowded spaces, and unpredictable noise can be overwhelming.
Lack of Clear Communication – Unclear schedules, last-minute changes, or dense, jargon-filled event materials make planning difficult.
No Quiet Spaces – Nowhere to take a break when things become too much.
Rigid Structures – Strict entry times, limited seating flexibility, and lack of alternative participation options.
Unclear Social Expectations – Networking events with no structure can be daunting for those who prefer a more guided approach.

Introducing the Neurodiversity in Events Checklist

To address these issues, Welcome Brain Consulting, in collaboration with the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) and the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO), developed the Neurodiversity in Events Checklist.

This three-tier framework (Silver, Gold, Platinum) allows organisers to implement neuroinclusive practices based on their budget and goals.

Silver-Level Steps – Simple, cost-free actions that any event can implement.
Gold-Level Steps – Enhanced accessibility features requiring some investment.
Platinum-Level Steps – Best-in-class innovations for events aiming to set the highest global standard.

The key takeaway? You do not need a big budget to be neuroinclusive. Many essential improvements cost nothing at all.

Practical, Free Steps for Organisers

Many organisers worry that making an event neuroinclusive will be costly or complicated. In reality, the most impactful changes are free and easy to implement.

Here are simple, no-cost Silver-Level steps from the checklist that any event can start using today:

Clear Pre-Event Communication

Provide an easy-to-read schedule with start/end times, session descriptions, and locations.
Use bullet points instead of dense text and avoid jargon.
Offer multiple formats (PDF, Word, large print) to accommodate different reading preferences.

Venue & Physical Environment

Provide a Quiet Space – A simple, signposted quiet room with soft lighting and seating can make a huge difference.
Step-Free Access – Ensure ramps, elevators, and automatic doors are clearly marked on venue maps.
Reduce Background Noise – Avoid unnecessary music in common areas.

Presentations & Content

Use dyslexia-friendly fonts (Arial, Lexend, or Verdana) in at least 12pt size.
Keep slides simple (no more than six lines of text per slide).
Provide alternative formats (plain text, large print, and audio summaries).

Assistive Support & Technology

Offer free real-time captioning tools (such as Google Meet captions or Otter.ai) for presentations.
Ensure all microphones and amplification systems are used properly in session rooms.

Networking & Social Considerations

Provide structured networking options (small group discussions or one-to-one chats) instead of only open mingling.
Designate quiet networking areas with reduced sensory input for those who prefer smaller, calmer interactions.

Food & Beverage

Label food and drinks clearly with visual icons for allergens and dietary restrictions.
Offer multiple food stations to reduce crowding.
Include grab-and-go meal options for those who prefer to eat in a quieter space.

Breaks & Timing

Schedule breaks every 45–60 minutes and communicate clearly when and where they will occur.
Let attendees know that stepping out of a session is acceptable if they need a break.

By implementing even a handful of these changes, event organisers can drastically improve the experience for neurodivergent attendees—without adding extra costs.

The Business and Ethical Case for Neuroinclusive Events

Neuroinclusion is not just the right thing to do—it also makes business sense.

Expands Your Audience – 20% of the population is neurodivergent. Making events more inclusive opens your doors to a wider pool of attendees.
Enhances Your Reputation – Organisations that prioritise accessibility stand out as forward-thinking and socially responsible.
Meets Legal Requirements – Under the Equality Act (2010), organisations must accommodate neurodivergent individuals.
Future-Proofs Your Event – Accessibility expectations are rising, and inclusive events are the future.
Creates a Better Experience for All – Many neuroinclusive practices (clearer communication, better signage, quiet spaces) benefit all attendees, not just neurodivergent ones.

Start Small, Start Now

Neuroinclusive events do not require major investment—they require awareness, commitment, and small, meaningful changes.

By implementing just a few Silver-Level steps, organisers can make a huge impact. The Neurodiversity in Events Checklist provides a practical roadmap for creating events that are truly welcoming to everyone.

Are you ready to take the first step? Download the checklist and start making your events neuroinclusive today.

Access the checklist using the link here.

Or to organise tailored neuroinclusion consulting for your event, get in touch with us today.