How do we make community spaces truly inclusive for people with  learning disabilities? Voscur, Bristol’s local support and development  agency for the Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector, wanted to answer this question. And who better to provide first-hand insights than our very own Rob, an experienced public speaker with  lived experience of engaging with and using community spaces. 

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Preparing for the event 

Rob was invited to take the stage with Rachel, a community advisor with  VOSCUR, who led the interview in the beautiful Nissen Hut at Eastville  Park. With 24 organizations signed up, the event was set to be a  valuable conversation about accessibility and inclusion. To ensure  attendees could get the most out of Rob’s expertise, they were invited to  submit questions in advance. This allowed Rob to carefully think through  his answers. Rob and I had fun preparing together - practicing  responses and role-playing different scenarios. Since the venue was  new to Rob, we felt a practice run was in order. Visiting in advance  ensured he felt comfortable with the space more importantly knowing  how to get there. 

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A conversation that left an impact 

On the day of the event, the sun was shining - a perfect setting for an  important discussion. Rob was a natural, speaking with clarity, offering  heartfelt advice, while attendees eagerly took notes. His insights  resonated with the audience, reaffirming the importance of small but  meaningful improvements to accessibility.

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When the floor opened to questions, Easy Read emerged as a keen point of interest - how to apply it to websites, social media, and general  communications, to make information more accessible. Attendees were  keen to apply inclusive practices to their content. 

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Beyond digital accessibility, Rob’s practical advice highlighted thoughtful  touches like varied seating, variable-height reception desks, and above  all, kindness and patience - two qualities that go a long way in making  spaces welcoming for all. 

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What’s next? 

Attendees left inspired, requesting more resources on Easy Read. My Community Bristol’s booklet ‘How Inclusive Are You?’ became an in demand resource alongside further information on organising inclusive  events. 

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This event proved that meaningful conversations lead to real change. By listening to lived experiences and taking action on accessibility, Bristol’s  community spaces can become more inclusive and welcoming for everyone. 

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Want to learn more? Explore My Community Bristol’s work and resources here.

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