This year, Learning Technologies & HR Technologies UK introduced a Quiet and Sensory room to their event. Conferences and events are often bustling hubs of activity, brimming with ideas and professional connections. But for some attendees, the intense environment can be overwhelming. Recognising this, CloserStill Media, the organisers behind Learning Technologies UK (LTUK) and HR Technologies UK (HRTUK), took a commendable step towards inclusivity across our business by introducing Quiet & Sensory Rooms at their recent event.

This initiative wasn't simply about ticking a box. Our commitment to inclusive events focuses on creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging for everyone, particularly those with neurodiversity or hidden disabilities. These quiet rooms offer a much-needed refuge from the sensory overload, allowing attendees to recharge and rejoin the event feeling refreshed and ready to participate; and have been available across a number of our shows so far.

Making events accessible for all

The positive feedback from LTUK attendees, like Tess Robinson, a UN Women UK Delegate, is testament to the impact of this initiative. Robinson highlights the importance of these quiet spaces: “For anyone finding the LT24UK exhibition a bit overwhelming, they have thoughtfully provided a quiet room where you can go for a bit of respite. Turn right as you come in the entrance and walk down to the end. Well done CloserStill Media”

A big shout-out to our Inclusive Events subgroup within the CloserTogether Taskforce, a dedicated employee resource group. These champions work tirelessly to identify best practices for accessibility across all CloserStill Media events. Their goal - to ensure everyone feels welcome and gets the most out of the experience. We believe event organisers can create environments where everyone feels safe, comfortable, and valued. This not only benefits attendees but also creates a richer and more diverse environment for all.

Our Inclusive Events Chair Simona Jevdokimovaite comments:

“CloserStill Media's approach goes beyond offering quiet rooms. It underscores a commitment to inclusivity throughout the event planning process. This is an initiative that we have started to roll out across our events and have so far implemented at a number of our shows, including Care Show Birmingham and London, Occupational Therapy Show, Therapy Expo, Digital Healthcare Show, Best Practice London, Women's Health Professional Care, Clinical Pharmacy Congress London and Manchester, and Tech Show London”