Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in Events

Whether you refer to equity, diversity and inclusion as EDI or DEI (we have chosen to use the acronym EDI so the focus is on on equity), planning a successful event requires careful consideration of every detail and fostering an inclusive and diverse environment demands attention and resources.

We have put together a collection of resources tailored specifically for event managers. From insightful articles and guides to practical tools and templates, we've curated everything you need to navigate the complex landscape of EDI in event planning.

Whether you're organising a conference, a meeting, or team building, our bank of resources spans a wide range of topics, including inclusive marketing strategies, accessible event design, diverse speaker sourcing, and much more.

Our EDI Toolkit is committed to driving positive change within the events industry. Let’s work together to create more equitable, diverse, and inclusive events for everyone.

Shaping Sustainable Events:

Resources from our 2024 event, ‘Shaping Sustainable Events’:

Keep an eye on our YouTube channel here where we will be uploading recordings of our speakers.

VisitBritain Toolkit:

With advice and insights on creating an inclusive environment, this toolkit also provides information on the legal, commercial and ethical importance of accessibility:

https://www.visitbritain.org/business-advice/make-your-business-accessible-and-inclusive/visitengland-accessible-and-inclusive

Skift Meetings  Report: A Guide to Creating Equitable and Inclusive Event Experiences

In partnership with IMEX, this report includes a checklist to help event organisers ensure their event/s are inclusive. You will need to create a profile but the download is free. 

https://meetings.skift.com/reports/diversity-meeting-planning-guide/ 

Diversity Alliance:

Diversity Alliance is a leading equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility practice specifically for the events and hospitality industries.

https://www.diversityalliance.co.uk/

Event Well:

A charitable social enterprise committed to event welfare, neuro-inclusion, and mental wellbeing

https://eventwell.org/

AccessAble:

Many of the Cambridge Colleges have signed up for AccessAble. A website that offers detailed accessible information for disabled people, carers, wheelchair users on how to navigate their premises.  It includes information on entrances, parking, toilets, and other facilities enabling individuals to plan their visits more effectively.

https://www.accessable.co.uk/university-of-cambridge

Wellcome Trust EDI in Scientific Conferences Paper:

A report looking at participation at STEM conferences focusing on the experience of those from minoritised and non-minoritised groups at research meetings in the UK.

https://wellcomeopenresearch.org/articles/9-166 [wellcomeopenresearch.org]

AUTM

American-based association for technology transfer professionals:

EDIS

An alliance of organisations working to improve equality, diversity and inclusion within the science and health research sector:

https://edisgroup.org/resources/

BBC News

An article about using touchscreens which may be problematic for those who have visual impairments: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0gp4kxl?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

Other Resources: