Event organisers and managers – have you say and take part in the UK events industry research launched by ICC Wales and The Business of Events…
An extensive UK-wide research project into accessibility and inclusion across the business events sector has been launched to increase awareness and drive meaningful change, with the support of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events.
ICC Wales in partnership with The Business of Events have joined forces to gather detailed insight from venues and organisers nationwide to build a clearer picture of current challenges, practices, and ambitions.
With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) now in force across the EU, venues and organisers in the international events sector face growing pressure to ensure they are welcoming and fully inclusive for all delegates.
Supported by award-winning disability inclusion and accessibility expert Dr Shani Dhanda, the research invites venues and planners to take part in a short, anonymous survey, sharing honest insights into how accessibility is currently approached and where improvements are needed.
Dr Shani Dhanda said: โAccessibility isnโt a nice-to-have โ itโs a necessity. True inclusion starts with listening, and this research is an important first step in understanding the current reality of our industry. By taking part, venues and organisers can help uncover the gaps, challenge assumptions, and build events that work for everyone.โ
The findings will feed into a report due to be launched later this year, featuring research and commentary from delegates with both visible and non-visible disabilities. The goal is to provide actionable insight that venues, organisers, and suppliers can use to create lasting change โ rooted in lived experience and real-world application.
Discussing the importance of the research, Chief Executive of ICC Wales and The Celtic Collection, Julie Hammond said: โWhile the UK is no longer part of the EU, the European Accessibility Act sets a new benchmark that venues simply canโt ignore โ especially those working with international clients. But raising standards isnโt just about compliance; itโs about listening. If we want to deliver truly inclusive experiences, we must listen to those with lived experience of disability and be honest about where we are now. I urge UK venues to take part in this research, share their challenges, and be part of the change.โ
Take part in the UK events industry research
The whitepaper will align with the EAA and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), covering areas such as venue infrastructure, digital access, sensory needs, neurodiversity, and emerging AI-driven solutions. It will also draw on ICC Walesโs experience of hosting accessible events such as the Kidz to Adultz exhibition and the SQLBits Data Conference.
The venue survey is now live and can be accessed here. This will close on 31 July 2025.
About ICC Wales
An ยฃ83.7m joint venture between Celtic Manor and Welsh Government, ICC Wales can accommodate more than 5,000 delegates and includes a 4,000sqm pillar-free main hall, a 1,500-seated auditorium, 15 flexible meeting rooms, a double-height glass atrium with views of the surrounding Coldra Woods and a 2,500sqm outdoor plaza.
ICC Wales is located within the grounds of the Celtic Manor Resort and managed by the Celtic Manor Resortโs expert leadership team responsible for the successful delivery of the 2014 NATO Summit and the 2010 Ryder Cup.
About The Business of Events
The Business of Events is an independent Think Tank and Advocacy Network run by brand communications agency Davies Tanner.
To register your interest in policy, report ideas, or editorial and partnership opportunities please visit The Business of Events website here.
