Neurodiversity in Events
Introduction
20% of the population is neurodivergent; this means that neuroinclusive events automatically include a significant section of the population.
Neuroinclusion matters
Making your events more neuroinclusive doesn’t have to be costly or time-consuming. A little effort goes a long way.
Simple, effective solutions
This checklist, developed by Welcome Brain Consulting, ABPCO, and EICC, provides clear, accessible steps to help event organisers create neuroinclusive events.
Practical guidance
How It Works:
Three Tiers
Choose Silver, Gold, or Platinum based on your event’s capacity and resources.
Promote your efforts!
Fully completing a tier will allow you to market your event as neuroinclusive (e.g. “Gold-Level Neuroinclusive Event”).Once you have completed a tier, email info@welcomebrain.com to book a short assessment call and access your digital resource toolkit with marketing materials.
N.B. If some items in the tier list don’t apply to your event or venue, you do not have to complete them to be classed as having completed the tier.
Need a hard copy? Download this guide as a PDF.
Overview of Neurodivergent Conditions and Their Representation in this Guide
Neurodivergence includes a range of conditions that influence how individuals process information, communicate, and engage with the world. Click to learn more about each condition as it relates to events and event planning.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and neurodivergence varies by individual.
Best Practices Overview for Including Neurodivergent People in Events
Creating neuroinclusive events starts with one fundamental principle: empowering attendees to personalise their experience. Below are the key themes to consider when planning neuroinclusive events—click to learn more.
Neurodiversity In Events: Checklist
1. Pre-Event Communication
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Clear Event Information:
Provide an easy-to-read schedule with detailed start/end times, session descriptions, and locations.
Use simple, jargon-free language and dyslexia-friendly fonts (Arial, Lexend, or Verdana) in accessible formats (PDF, Word, large print).
Avoid dense blocks of text—use bullet points, headings, and consistent formatting for clarity.
Include multiple formats (plain text, audio summaries) to accommodate diverse needs.
Include clear reminders on cancellation policies and key dates.
Include menu options as well as details about bringing in personal meals.
Include a clear outline of an expected dress code (including picture examples if anything other than a standard dress code).
Video Tours:
Create video walkthroughs showing accessible routes from public transport hubs and parking areas to the venue.
Highlight key spaces in the venue: registration, session rooms, toilets, quiet spaces, dining areas, and exits.
Accessibility FAQs:
Create a “Neurodiversity FAQs” for the event website, addressing common concerns, including:
State that your event has followed the Neurodiversity in Events checklist as well as any the level you have gained. Add a link to the Neurodiversity in Events checklist so attendees can see clearly the provisions available.
Availability of quiet rooms, sensory-friendly spaces, and dietary accommodations.
Policies on assistance animals, mobility aids, and staggered entry to avoid queues.
Guidelines on how to request additional support.
Pre-Event Registration Form:
Allow attendees to specify their accessibility needs (e.g., sensory sensitivities, mobility aids, assistance with navigation).
Include specific accommodations for:
Dyspraxia: Options to avoid queues and request staggered entry.
Auditory Processing Disorder: Options for written summaries or captioning.
OCD: Clear schedules and advance event information to reduce uncertainty; personal-use materials available on request.
Offer a direct contact point for additional requests and ensure responses are timely.
Sessions Recorded: Clearly state in pre-event communications whether sessions will be recorded and made available post-event, so attendees can step out without fear of missing content.
No Disclosure Required: Make clear in all pre-event communications and on the registration form that all neuroinclusive provisions — quiet rooms, sensory kits, reserved seating, etc. — are available to any attendee and do not require disclosure of a diagnosis or condition.
Accessible Registration: Ensure the registration process itself is simple: use clearly labelled forms, avoid unnecessary compulsory fields, and ensure forms do not time out without warning. Offer the option to register by email or phone as an alternative to online forms.
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Professionally designed accessible guides in digital and printed formats, including audio descriptions for attendees who prefer auditory input.
Offer a custom event app for personalised scheduling and real-time accommodation requests.
Assign a dedicated accessibility concierge to support attendees with complex needs.
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Develop a fully customisable event platform where attendees can design their entire experience, including seating, lighting, dietary preferences, and more.
Produce a social story — a short, plain-language, illustrated step-by-step account of the event day from arrival to departure, with photographs of key locations — available on the event website and to any attendee on request.
Use AI-powered chatbots trained to answer complex accessibility questions and provide instant assistance.
Create pre-event video guides with neuroinclusion ambassadors to familiarise attendees with the event environment and logistics.
2. Venue and Physical Environment
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Maps:
Provide clear maps of the venue. These should highlight: areas of high sensory stimulation, quiet areas, and help desks.
Quiet Room:
Provide a dedicated, accessible quiet room equipped with:
Comfortable seating (beanbags, armchairs).
Adjustable lighting.
Clear signage indicating a no-talking, no-phone-call, and no-eating policy.
Quiet Room — additional guidance: Make clear in all event communications and on signage at the quiet room that no explanation or reason is needed to use the space, and that attendees will not be approached unless they specifically request it. Ensure all staff are aware of the room's usage and can respond if a welfare concern is raised. The room should not be monitored in a way that undermines its purpose, but a clear protocol should exist for responding if someone appears to be in distress. Note: if your event includes under-18s or attendees with significant support needs, additional supervision arrangements should be considered.
Quiet Room Signage: Ensure quiet rooms and sensory spaces are clearly signposted throughout the venue using large, simple, consistent signage with icons, positioned at eye level and visible from key corridors and session rooms.
Step-Free Access and Routes:
Ensure step-free access to all areas, with ramps, elevators, and automatic doors.
Clearly mark accessible routes on venue maps, with both printed and digital copies available.
Staggered Entry:
Offer flexible check-in times or separate registration desks for attendees who wish to avoid queues or crowded areas.
Calming Environments:
Use neutral, calming colour palettes (e.g., soft greens, blues) throughout the venue.
Avoid bright neon or sharp contrasts in decor.
Acoustics and Noise Control:
Reduce ambient noise by using sound-absorbing materials (e.g., carpets, panels) in common areas where possible.
Provide noise-cancelling headphones at registration upon request.
Bathrooms
Provide single-person (ie. single stall) options.
Reserved Back Row: Keep the back row of seating in all session rooms free or lightly occupied, to allow attendees to enter and exit discreetly without disruption. Communicate this policy in the event programme and to all session chairs.
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Upgrade quiet rooms with interactive calming tools like guided meditations, sensory pods, and zero-gravity chairs.
Provide assistive wayfinding technology, such as beacon apps for step-by-step navigation.
Design low-sensory pathways for attendees who prefer quieter, less crowded routes.
Include additional accommodations for dyspraxia, such as wide aisles and options to assist with transporting materials.
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Create multi-sensory decompression rooms with dynamic lighting systems, VR relaxation tools, and tactile furniture like sensory pods.
Commission a pre-event sensory audit of the venue — conducted by a specialist, a neurodivergent staff member, or a trusted attendee volunteer — producing a written report and action plan before the event.
Offer robotic or automated assistants to help attendees carry materials or navigate the venue.
Include fully customisable seating with adjustable armrests, back support, and acoustic panels for personal sensory environments.
3. Content and Presentations
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Diverse Structure
Present a diverse range of formats including speeches, workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions.
Deliver on-demand content available before, during, and after the event.
Accessible Slides and Handouts
Use dyslexia-friendly fonts (Arial, Lexend, or Verdana) in at least 12pt size.
Avoid italics, underlining, or all-capital text.
Ensure slides are visually simple—no more than 6 lines of text per slide.
Use high-contrast colour schemes (e.g., dark blue text on pale cream backgrounds) for clarity.
Alternative Formats
Provide materials in multiple accessible formats, including:
Plain text, large print, and audio formats.
A printed agenda with room names and times for attendees with dyscalculia or spatial challenges.
Distribute digital presentation materials pre-event or post-event, allowing attendees to review them at their own pace.
Real-Time AI Accessibility Tools
Use free real-time AI transcription services (e.g., Otter.ai, Google Meet captions) to provide voice-to-text captions during all sessions where possible.
Ensure captions are accessible:
Display captions on-screen during presentations.
Provide access via attendees’ personal devices for those who prefer smaller screens.
Offer AI-generated summaries of presentations or sessions:
Provide summaries via email or the event app to attendees who opt in.
Simplified Speaker Guidelines
Request speakers (where possible) to:
Speak at a steady pace to allow transcription tools to work effectively.
Use visual aids (slides, graphics) to support their message.
Provide a brief session agenda at the start to summarise key points.
Reduce the need for jargon training by relying on AI tools (such as Natural Language Processing Systems and speech-to-text) to handle technical terms, making content more accessible.
Content Notes: Ask speakers to provide a brief content note at the start of their session if their presentation includes loud audio, rapidly flashing images, or emotionally distressing subject matter, so attendees can prepare or step out.
Encouraging Interaction
Allow attendees to ask questions in their preferred format:
Verbally during sessions.
Written via cards, apps, or chat platforms.
Support for Neurodivergent Speakers: Extend neuroinclusive accommodations to speakers and panellists as well as attendees. Offer speakers the option to receive questions in written form in advance, present seated, or have a support person present. Brief all speakers that the audience will include neurodivergent attendees and share simple guidance on accessible delivery.
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Upgrade to live professional captioning for all sessions, replacing or supplementing AI transcription tools.
Offer live streaming to quieter spaces or personal devices.
Provide ASL/British Sign Language interpreters where requested and prominently highlight their availability.
Include session content in interactive digital formats that allow attendees to annotate or adjust content as needed.
Provide speaker coaching sessions to prepare presenters for engaging neurodiverse audiences.
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Use AI-powered real-time captioning and summarisation tools to ensure near-perfect transcription and concise takeaways.
Incorporate interactive presentation tools, such as devices that allow attendees to control content pacing or access supplementary materials.
Offer simultaneous multi-language translation, including British Sign Language (BSL) and other signed languages.
Use AI-driven speaker rehearsal tools to refine presentations for neuroinclusive delivery.
4. Technology and Support
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Captioning and Amplification:
Offer real-time captioning where possible, using free tools like Google Meet.
Ensure microphones and amplification systems are used in all session rooms.
Remind all speakers and session chairs that microphones should be used even in smaller rooms where they feel unnecessary.
Assistive Listening Devices:
Confirm with your venue that a hearing loop (T-loop) is active and covers all session spaces. Communicate this clearly in pre-event materials so attendees can plan accordingly.
Virtual Participation:
Offer remote attendance options with recordings available post-event.
Technical Support:
Have a designated support team available to troubleshoot accessibility issues on-site and online.
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Provide a room-by-room summary of hearing loop coverage in pre-event materials. Ensure loop provision extends to breakout spaces and key areas, not just the main hall.
Enhance hybrid options with interactive live streams that allow remote attendees to ask questions and participate in discussions.
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Provide wearable assistive technology, such as bone-conduction headsets for personalised auditory assistance.
Include on-demand tech assistants for troubleshooting advanced accessibility tools.
5. Networking and Social Events
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Structured Networking:
Provide facilitated small-group discussions or pre-arranged one-on-one meetings to support attendees who may find unstructured networking overwhelming.
Design topic-based or structured networking opportunities to ease social anxiety.
Include clear instructions (e.g. time limit and who is assigned notetaker/speaker in any group activity) and optional topics for discussion.
Quiet Networking Areas:
Designate spaces for quieter conversations with reduced sensory input.
Quiet Networking Areas:
Designate spaces for quieter conversations with reduced sensory input.
Interaction Preferences: Offer attendees a simple, opt-in interaction preference system at registration — for example, colour-coded dot stickers on name badges indicating whether they are happy to be approached, prefer to initiate conversations themselves, or are not networking at this event. Frame this as a universal personal preference tool available to everyone, not specific to any group. Give attendees the option to also not select a preference should they wish. Communicate the system clearly in pre-event materials and at registration.
Flexible Participation:
Offer staggered entry to social events to reduce crowding and support attendees with dyspraxia or social anxiety.
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Use AI-driven attendee matchmaking platforms to connect participants based on shared interests or goals.
Include soundproof booths or enclosed seating areas for private networking conversations.
Offer a pre-event survey where attendees can indicate their preferences for networking activities.
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Use AI-powered platforms to recommend conversation starters based on attendee profiles.
Provide modular networking zones with adjustable sensory environments tailored to attendee preferences.
6. Sensory Considerations
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Lighting:
Use non-flickering, soft LED lighting in all areas. Avoid sudden changes in brightness.
Fragrance-Free Policy:
Minimise strong scents by using fragrance-free cleaning products and discouraging heavy perfumes.
Noise Management:
Avoid background music in common areas.
Sensory Kits:
Provide kits upon request, including fidget tools, earplugs, and weighted lap pads. Consider also using cooling items (such as cooling towels or handheld fans).
Lanyards:
Encourage attendees to provide their own lanyards that fit their own sensory requirements (and promote sustainability).
Provide sensory lanyards or alternative options such as clip-on badges or stickers.
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Install dimmable LED lighting systems with adjustable brightness and colour temperature.
Use noise-dampening materials, such as acoustic panels and partitions, in high-traffic areas.
Provide custom sensory kits with premium items like weighted lap pads, tactile devices, and VR relaxation goggles.
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Use smart acoustic sensors to monitor and adjust ambient noise in real time.
Offer high-tech sensory kits, including VR relaxation goggles and haptic feedback devices.
7. Breaks and Timing
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Frequent Breaks:
Schedule breaks every 45–60 minutes, clearly communicating when and where they will occur.
Break Areas
Create colour-coded break areas for different preferences (e.g., quiet zones, social spaces).
Flexible Attendance:
Reassure attendees that stepping out of sessions is acceptable and will not disrupt the event.
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Provide personalised break reminders through the event app.
Offer guided relaxation sessions, such as mindfulness exercises or yoga, tailored to neurodiverse needs.
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Provide luxury relaxation areas with options for VR-guided meditations or massage chairs.
8. Food and Beverage
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Menu
Inform attendees in advance of the menu options (as well as the means of organising alternative/personal food).
Display the menu prominently in the venue to avoid decision pressure.
Dietary Labels and Simplicity:
Label all food and drinks with visual icons for allergens and dietary restrictions.
Offer simple, sensory-friendly meals (e.g., plain sandwiches, build-your-own bowls).
Multiple Options
Offer ‘grab and go’ options for those wishing to avoid a queue.
Offer multiple food stations to avoid crowds.
Quiet Dining Options:
Designate separate, low-stimulation dining areas.
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Include build-your-own meal stations, such as salad or grain bowls, to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
Provide grab-and-go pre-packaged meals for attendees who prefer minimal interaction.
Offer quiet dining spaces with soundproofing and adjustable lighting for low-stimulation meal experiences.
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Use advanced ordering systems to let attendees customise meals ahead of time.
Offer private dining suites with fully adjustable sensory environments.
9. Staffing and Training
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Staff Training
Make staff familiar with the Neurodiversity in Events checklist, to ensure they understand the different facets of a neuroinclusive event.
Ensure all staff are trained in:
Supporting neurodivergent event attendees
Understanding neuroinclusion
Neuroinclusive language
Sensory needs
[Book CPD-certified neuroinclusive events training through Welcome Brain using the link here]
Make support staff easily identifiable through badges, shirts, or other visual markers.
Ensure that event staff can offer alternative communication methods, such as written instructions, text-based support, or communication cards, to support those with verbal processing differences.
Ensure all staff are trained on accommodating neurodivergent attendees during emergency situations, including clear, calm communication during evacuations.
Offer neurodivergent attendees the ability to connect with a designated staff member in advance to discuss requirements or ask questions.
Consider the needs of neurodivergent staff members when planning schedules, training, and on-site tasks.
Proactive Staff Language: Give staff a simple, proactive phrase to offer attendees at key touchpoints — for example: "Is there anything I can help make more comfortable for you today?" This shifts staff behaviour from reactive to proactive without being intrusive.
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Develop a proactive attendee support system, including pre-event Q&A sessions, personalised assistance check-ins, or optional sensory tours before the event begins.
Implement a digital accessibility support system: Use an event app or chatbot to provide real-time neuroinclusive guidance to staff and attendees. The system can offer on-demand support, answer accessibility-related questions, and connect neurodivergent attendees with trained staff instantly.
Offer tailored staff assignments based on neuroinclusive expertise: Designate a small team of neuroinclusion champions—staff members who have received in-depth training on neurodivergent needs and accommodations. These individuals should be strategically placed at key touchpoints (registration, help desks, quiet spaces) and made easily identifiable to support neurodivergent attendees throughout the event.
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Live Neuroinclusion Concierge Service – Offer a dedicated Neuroinclusion Concierge available both pre-event (for personalised consultations and planning assistance) and on-site (to provide direct support for neurodivergent attendees). This could include live text support, WhatsApp availability, or a designated in-person accessibility lead at key event locations.
Create a Peer Support or Advocacy Program: Train select staff or volunteers as Neuroinclusion Champions who receive additional training in neuroinclusive communication, sensory accommodations, and de-escalation techniques. These individuals should be available on-site and online before and during the event to provide guidance and reassurance to neurodivergent attendees.
10. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
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Accessible Feedback Options:
Provide feedback forms in multiple formats:
Written forms (available in large print).
QR codes linking to online surveys.
Verbal feedback stations for those who prefer to provide input directly.
Post-Event Analysis:
Include specific questions about the sensory environment, communication clarity, quiet spaces, and ease of navigation. Offer multiple response formats — written, verbal, and anonymous — to ensure the full range of attendee experiences is captured.
Staff Debrief: Conduct a brief post-event debrief with support staff to capture observations about which provisions were most used, which were underused, and what additional needs were expressed during the event. Use this alongside formal attendee feedback to inform improvements.
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Use real-time polling apps to collect immediate feedback during sessions.
Offer one-on-one feedback sessions with staff for verbal or in-depth discussions.
Conduct post-event analysis to evaluate accessibility and inclusion efforts, providing detailed reports for improvement.
Share a brief post-event neuroinclusion summary - publicly or with Welcome Brain - documenting which provisions were in place, what feedback was received, and what will change next time. This supports transparency and contributes to sector-wide learning.
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Deploy AI-powered feedback tools that categorise and analyse attendee comments in real-time, highlighting trends and areas for improvement.
Provide voice-activated or video feedback booths where attendees can share input in their preferred format.
Offer a live feedback dashboard during the event to make on-the-spot adjustments (e.g., changing room temperatures, reducing noise, or extending breaks).
Include a follow-up consultation or survey to track attendees' reflections weeks after the event, measuring the long-term impact of neuroinclusive strategies.
Need a hard copy?
Download the full guide and checklist in whatever format works best for you and your team - a printable PDF, or a shareable spreadsheet.
Ready to make your events neuroinclusive?
Welcome Brain is here to help. Get in touch to learn more about consulting and CPD-certified training for event teams.

