ICC Wales report reveals 93% of disabled people still face barriers at UK events
ICC Wales report reveals 93% of disabled people still face barriers at UK events
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Wales is emerging as a frontrunner in accessible event delivery, as new research released by ICC Wales and The Business of Events reveals that 93% of disabled people still face barriers when attending events across the UK.
Launched at IBTM World in Barcelona, one of the global meeting industry’s flagship events, the report, Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events, uncovers a stark mismatch between what UK venues believe they offer and what disabled attendees actually experience.
Supported by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Events, the study calls for urgent nationwide reform and spotlights ICC Wales as a benchmark for inclusive practice.
Drawing on responses from more than 1,000 event attendees and 100 UK venues, the research found that nearly one in three event-goers has a visible or non-visible disability.
Of those, 93% said they encountered barriers at events, ranging from inaccessible layouts (28%) and lack of accessible toilets (24%) to untrained staff (25%), overstimulating environments (27%), and insufficient accessibility information (17%).
Despite many venues believing they meet accessibility standards, the report highlights ongoing gaps in staff training, communication, and inclusive design.
ICC Wales, based in Newport, is singled out as an example of best practice, with the venue integrating accessibility into its entire operation.
Step-free access throughout, gender-neutral facilities, sensory-friendly spaces and comprehensive disability awareness training feature among its commitments.
The research also notes that ICC Wales does not charge organisers for accessibility features, a practice that remains uneven across the UK.
Craig Bingham, Managing Director of ICC Wales, said: “Accessibility must sit at the heart of every event – and at ICC Wales, it genuinely does. We’re proud to be leading this conversation from Wales and demonstrating that inclusion and commercial success go hand in hand.
“Inclusive design should be a baseline expectation, not a bolt-on or a budget decision. Our approach is about removing barriers before they arise, and ensuring everyone can take part fully and comfortably. That’s what makes events truly successful – for people, businesses, and communities.”
Mike Fletcher, Director of News & Content at The Business of Events, said ICC Wales is setting a standard that the sector should follow.
He said: “This research shows that ICC Wales is setting a powerful example for the rest of the UK. Accessibility isn’t just a moral responsibility – it’s an economic one. Inclusive venues attract a wider range of events, build stronger reputations, and help position Wales as a world-class destination for business tourism.”
Accessibility expert Dr Shani Dhanda, who contributed to the research and authored its recommendations, said the findings should act as a catalyst for systemic change.
She said: “This research deserves real applause – it’s not just a report, it’s a rallying cry for progress. The first of its kind, it shines a light on a truth we can no longer ignore: accessibility is still too often seen as optional, when in reality, it benefits everyone.”
She added: “The findings call for bold, lasting change. The time for quick fixes and reactive adjustments is over. Accessibility must be woven into every stage of design and delivery. By listening to those with lived experiences, embedding inclusive thinking, and striving for continuous improvement, the UK events industry can set a global benchmark for true inclusion.”
The report also sets out ten practical recommendations and a clear pathway to meeting the requirements of the European Accessibility Act, which came into force in June 2025.
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