Active Kent & Medway has written this guide to help you promote your activities in a way that could appeal to a wider audience, including more disabled people. It is based on Activity Alliance’s Ten Principles.
Inclusion
Many disabled people would like to take part in activities that are not just for disabled people.
How have you described who your activity is for? Have you used inclusive language, such as:
- disabled and non-disabled
- suitable for all abilities
- adapted for different needs
- beginners and experienced
Communication
Disabled people want instructors to be aware of and sensitive to their needs. They might want to have a conversation and find out more about the activity before committing to coming along.
Have you provided lots of communication methods, e.g. phone, email, social media messaging, in person?
Location
Travelling can be a real barrier for some disabled people.
Have you included information about local transport? Have you shared information about any disabled parking? How far away is it and what is the journey like from the car park to the activity? What else is going on at the venue or in the local area?
Motivation
Linking an activity to the participant’s values can make it more appealing. However, values and motivations can change over time.
Have you shared information about what the feeling of your group is like? What might make your activity relevant for the participant now and in the future? For example:
- welcoming, relaxed, safe and friendly
- learn new skills or gain confidence
- part of the community
- exciting, adventurous, calm or quiet
- family friendly
- opportunities to progress or get involved in other ways
Expectation
Some disabled people are worried about standing out or needing too much help.
Have you reassured the participants that you can meet a range of needs without creating any unwanted attention? Are there videos or interviews with other participants, so they can picture themself taking part?
It is important that all participants have an enjoyable experience, not just when taking part in the activity, but at every point along the way.
Have you directed the participant to more information about what they can expect when they arrive? For example:
- who will they meet
- where will they need to go
- what do they need to bring
- what the structure of the session will be
- who should they ask for (this could be an instructor or a volunteer – just a friendly face!)