2nd AccessCat Innovation Day

Hosting an accessible event

The AccessCat Network is committed to using all available resources to ensure that the events it holds are adapted to the needs of attendees.

With this goal, several measures have been implemented so all attendees of the 2nd AccessCat Innovation Day, which will be held on 25 November 2025, can enjoy the event with the greatest possible autonomy.

 

Before the event

Choosing the venue: After enquiring about several venues, Hub Social Barcelona (c/ Girona, 34, interior, Barcelona) was chosen due to the facilities it offers: 

  • Social space with staff who are trained in inclusion and proactive in finding solutions.
  • Located near a metro station adapted with lifts, tactile flooring, and other accessibility measures from TMB.
  • Entirely street-level venue, without steps or split levels. There will be a raised platform from which speakers will present. The platform may be accessed via stairs and a ramp.
  • Spacious and open venue, flexible and adapted to possible needs, without architectural barriers. The few doors it has are wide and automatic, or offer little resistance.
  • Flexible and easy-to-arrange seating, as the chairs are not fixed to the floor. Seats will be reserved considering specific needs, such as spaces for wheelchairs or areas with better visibility for sign language interpreting.
  • Guaranteed access for support animals in accordance with current legislation.
  • Signs with clear images and simple directions to locate restrooms and other services. 

Registration and programme: Information on the event has been distributed mainly through the website and registration form. 

  • The AccessCat website is adapted for accessibility tools such as screen readers, and it considers colour contrast.
  • Available accessibility services are described in the registration form. It also includes an option for attendees to notify of any unforeseen needs. The goal is to identify needs in advance and provide the most appropriate solution to ensure the attendees’ independence and comfort.
  • A section to specify dietary requirements is included in the registration form.
  • The event poster shared on the website and social media is always accompanied by alternative text. Videos include subtitles and audio description.
  • When promoting the event on social media, the number of hashtags is limited and they are placed mainly at the end of the text in order to facilitate readability. The use of emojis is also limited, bearing in mind screen readers.
  • An article has been published on the website to describe the accessibility considerations taken to ensure inclusion and autonomy during the event. 

 

During the event

  • Members of the organisation will be present throughout the event to assist attendees with their needs. They will be wearing a badge for easy identification.
  • Communication will be proactive, with reminders about the available accessibility services.
  • During speaker presentations, there will be live subtitling on large screens and Catalan Sign Language interpreting. Placement of the interpreter and the visibility of the subtitles have been carefully chosen for optimal viewing.
  • The organisation will ensure that projected materials consider high-contrast colours and font size for optimal viewing. It will also ensure that the information is understandable.
  • The organisation will print the badges, ensuring they are legible and the colour contrast is suitable.
  • Large QR codes will be displayed with the programme and other useful resources to follow the event.
  • Most of the event can be attended while seated. When an activity requires standing, advance notice will be provided and chairs will always be available for attendees who may need them.
  • Audio description will be integrated into the event, provided by a professional responsible for audio descriptions.
  • The catering service will offer a variety of food to accommodate attendees’ needs, intolerances, and preferences. Moreover, the meal will be easy to handle (no cutting or peeling will be required and it may be consumed without a plate).
  • The catering tables will be at an optimal height so all attendees can access them independently.
  • Despite this, we are aware that there may still be needs we have not anticipated. Because of this, attendees are encouraged to send us suggestions for improvement via email: xarxa.accesscat@uab.cat 

 

After the event 

  • All images shared on the website and social media will be accompanied by alternative text. Videos will include subtitles and audio description (integrated into Able Player).
  • Attendees will receive a satisfaction survey, which will be taken into account for future events.