An IDRC Project An Inclusive Design Research Centre Project

Quick Actions

  • Share travel guides and advice from disabled and Deaf people who have previously attended similar meetings.
  • Make a shared document or online space where people can share travel tips, resources, and experiences.
  • Match first-time travelers with a “buddy” who has similar access needs and has traveled internationally before.
  • Assign an accessibility contact person for each in-person meeting, including someone available at the venue to help.
  • Provide an accessibility guide for each host city, with local information and tips.
  • Offer a travel checklist and packing list that includes medications, mobility aids, chargers, and required documents, and provide information about possible travel restrictions when crossing international borders (for example, rules related to carrying certain medications, medical supplies, or assistive devices).
  • Arrange a contact person for travel questions and support.
  • Share information about accessibility at the venue including entrances, elevators, and bathrooms.
  • Provide clear details about transportation including accessible taxis and public transit options.

More Information

Examples

Australia – Standards Australia Standards Australia offers flexible travel support and peer mentorship to assist members with travel planning and accessibility needs.

Barriers these actions address

Inaccessible in-person meetings

Why is this a problem?

In-person meetings often take place in spaces that are not accessible to everyone. This can make it hard for some people to attend, participate, or feel included.

Common problems include:

  • Travel that is long, costly, or hard to access
  • Fatigue from travel, especially for people with chronic pain or low energy
  • Buildings without ramps, elevators, or accessible restrooms
  • Not enough space for wheelchairs or assistive devices
  • No power outlets for assistive devices
  • No captions or sign language interpreters
  • Poor lighting or uncomfortable seating
  • People speaking over each other or no microphones used
  • No quiet space or flexible breaks
  • Networking in informal spaces that aren’t accessible

Ways to address the barrier

  • Build in travel funding
  • Choose accessible meeting spaces
  • Help with travel planning
  • Provide translation and interpretation for everyone

Consultation fatigue in D/deaf and D/disabled communities

Why is this a problem?

Many D/deaf and D/disabled community members are often asked for feedback, but rarely see real changes. This can lead to consultation fatigue, making people less willing to participate and reducing trust in standards organizations.

Common problems include:

  • Skepticism about whether participation will make a difference.
  • Feeling that feedback is ignored or not acted on.
  • Being asked for input many times without clear follow-up, leading to emotional and mental fatigue.

Ways to address the barrier

  • Establish continuous feedback loops
  • Help with information management
  • Help with travel planning
  • Set clear and realistic timelines for reviews, drafts, or revisions
  • Show accountability and build trust with D/deaf and D/disabled people

No funding for accessibility accommodations

Why is this a problem?

Many organizations don’t set aside money for accessibility. This makes it hard for people with disabilities to fully participate. When there is no dedicated funding, accessibility is often treated as optional instead of essential, which can prevent full participation.

Common problems include:

  • No budget for sign language interpreters or live captions
  • No support for accessible tools, platforms, or documents
  • No help with travel or personal assistance
  • Increased stress and fatigue for participants who have to manage accessibility themselves
  • No funds for extra staffing needed to support accessibility

Ways to address the barrier

  • Allocate a dedicated accessibility budget
  • Build in travel funding
  • Create a shared support system
  • Help with travel planning
  • Provide monetary compensation and financial support

Travel barriers for D/deaf and D/disabled people

Why is this a problem?

Travel can be harder for D/deaf and D/disabled people, making it more expensive, stressful, and tiring. This can make it difficult to attend in-person meetings, and some members may not be able to participate or may attend under extra strain.

Common problems include:

  • Support and guidance problems
    • No clear contact person to help with accessibility planning
    • No guidance on how to arrange accommodations for specific needs
    • Traveling without regular caregiver or personal support.
    • Higher travel stress, physical pain and fatigue because of limited support and long journeys
  • Accessibility support issues
    • Not having access to personal equipment or a full technology setup while travelling
    • Risk of mobility equipment being damaged during travel
    • No access to sign language interpreters during travel
  • Inaccessible spaces
    • Airports, trains, or taxis that are not fully accessible.
    • Limited information about accessibility in the host city
  • Funding and expense problems
    • Extra costs and difficulty finding accessible transport, hotels, or flights
    • Paying out of pocket for mobility equipment, support workers, or special insurance

Ways to address the barrier

  • Build in travel funding
  • Help with travel planning