Transparency shouldn't wait until you arrive
People shouldn't have to email organisers individually just to find out whether an event will work for them. Access barriers are created by environments, systems and missing information, not by the person attending. Access Declared shifts the responsibility back towards organisers by helping them share clear accessibility information upfront, reducing the need for attendees to ask basic questions individually. Working through the checklist also prompts organisers to consider accessibility before the event is launched, recognise practical support they could provide and build from the outset.
The same clarity we expect elsewhere, events should provide too
Think about how a restaurant publishes its allergen information online. If you have an allergy, you don't have to turn up and hope, or email ahead and ask, you already know before you book, whether it's safe for you. Events should offer people the same certainty.
Sharing what has been arranged, what is not currently available and what can be discussed helps attendees prepare and helps organisers identify gaps early enough to consider practical improvements.
Honest information is always better than silence
No event can meet every possible need, but organisers can still be clear about what has been arranged, what is not currently available and what may be discussed. Being open about limitations reduces uncertainty and can help identify practical improvements. Accessibility information benefits more people than many organisations realise. To highlight a few, it benefits disabled people, neurodivergent people as well as people with temporary injuries, long term health conditions, impairments, anxiety and anyone who benefits from knowing what to expect. Basic accessibility generally supports everyone.
Transparency is good for organisations and attendees
Build trust
Sharing accessibility information before people ask shows you've considered their experience from the outset and helps attendees feel more confident about your event.
Answer common questions once
Instead of responding to repeated emails about captions, step-free access or other arrangements, provide one clear accessibility declaration that everyone can access.
Help people make informed decisions
Clear information allows attendees to decide whether an event is right for them before they book or travel, rather than relying on assumptions or uncertainty.
Keep improving
Every declaration is an opportunity to reflect on what's already in place and identify small, practical improvements for future events.
What we're not, and what we are
No barriers to being open
- Free to use
- No accounts required
- No organisation profiles
- No data collection about individuals
- No assessment or judgement