The guide considers accessibility, psychological safety and sensory-friendly design.
The RCVS has published new guidance for organisers of veterinary events to help make conferences and meetings more accessible and welcoming for all attendees.
Produced by members of the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative, the ‘Supportive Spaces’ guide is aimed at meetings and events of all sizes, covering:
• implementing sensory-friendly event design for neurodivergent attendees and speakers
• understanding the difference between a ‘content warning’ and a ‘trigger warning’, and when to use them
• creating an environment that avoids pressure to drink alcohol and minimises the harms of overconsumption.
It also includes practical checklists to help organisers cover key accessibility criteria, such as making reasonable adjustments, evaluating venue layouts, and addressing catering needs.
Dr Zara Kennedy MRCVS, chair of the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative, said: “Attending events is integral to the veterinary experience, and valuable for professionals to come together, network, share ideas and learn. However, when organising an event, it is important to consider potential barriers to participation so that delegates feel safe, included and able to fully engage.
“This guide demonstrates the power of collaboration and industry-wide desire to ensure events are as supportive as possible. Every event planner wants delegates to come away feeling as though they have been able to participate and enjoy all the opportunities available to them.”
Deborah Rowlanes, RCVS head of events, outreach and engagement, added: “The success of an event is not measured solely by attendance, but by how supported, included and engaged people feel while they are there.
“This guide recognises that by considering accessibility, psychological safety and wellbeing from the planning stage, organisers can create spaces where all attendees, speakers and volunteers can thrive.”
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