• November 21, 2025

93% of disabled delegates encounter barriers at events

93% of disabled delegates encounter barriers at events

93% of disabled delegates encounter barriers at events 1024 683 micebook.

The majority (93%) of disabled delegates continue to encounter barriers when attending events, according to a new report from The Business of Events and ICC Wales, which highlights an urgent need for greater inclusion across the UK events industry.

Launched at IBTM World, Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events, is based on feedback from 1,000 delegates and more than 100 venues and identifies widespread challenges such as inaccessible layouts, untrained staff, overstimulating environments, and limited accessible facilities.

It reveals a significant disparity between how venues perceive their accessibility provision and how delegates experience it.

Venues report progress:

82% say they provide step-free access, and 91% report having accessible toilets
75% claim their staff have disability awareness training
More than half have a formal or developing accessibility policy

Delegates tell a different story:

93% of delegates with disabilities report experiencing barriers at events
28% have experienced inaccessible layouts; 24% reported a lack of accessible toilets
25% experienced untrained staff; 27% found environments overstimulating

Communication is inconsistent: 52% say accessibility information is only sometimes clear, while 17% report it missing altogether

Developed with accessibility consultant Dr Shani Dhanda and supported by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, the report explores 12 key themes including policies, physical and sensory access, communication, and training.

It also offers ten actionable recommendations to help event organisers and venues embed accessibility and inclusion at every stage of event design and align with the European Accessibility Act (EAA).

Dr Shani Dhanda said: “This research deserves real applause – it’s not just a report, it’s a rallying cry for progress. The first of its kind, it shines a light on a truth we can no longer ignore – accessibility is still too often seen as optional, when in reality, it benefits everyone.”

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