Creating an inclusive festive period for all employees is essential for fostering a welcoming and supportive workplace environment. As we embrace the joyous spirit of the season, it’s crucial to ensure that every member of the team feels valued and included in the celebrations.
We’ve picked out 10 top tips from Celebrating Disability on how to make the festive period truly inclusive for everyone:
- Planning Inclusive Festivities
Planning a holiday celebration that accommodates various needs and abilities is the first step towards inclusivity. Consider factors like accessibility, dietary requirements, and sensory sensitivities when organising events.
- Venue and Accessibility
If hosting an in-person event, choose a venue that’s wheelchair accessible and offers facilities for individuals with limited mobility. Ensure adequate lighting and consider the venue’s acoustics to accommodate those with sensory sensitivities. This could include a quiet space for time out.
- Dietary Accommodations
Catering to diverse dietary needs is essential. Providing a variety of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free choices, ensures everyone can enjoy the festive feast.
- Inclusive Activities and Games
For remote celebrations, opt for inclusive party games that accommodate various abilities. Consider the needs of those attending when planning activities, and whether the games rely on verbal, audio, or visuals. E.g. trivia, storytelling, or word-based games that engage without depending on sight could be more suitable if there are blind employees present.
- Remote Working Party Games
Engaging remote teams in inclusive activities is key. Think about games like virtual scavenger hunts, charades using descriptive cues, or collaborative story-writing where everyone contributes a sentence, bearing in mind the advice from the previous paragraph.
- Sensory-Friendly Celebrations
For employees with sensory sensitivities, consider quieter spaces or breaks during celebrations. Offering noise-canceling headphones or dimming lights can make a huge difference for individuals who are sensitive to sensory stimuli such as those with autism or ADHD.
- Communication and Consideration
Prioritise clear communication about the event’s details. Encourage employees to express their needs or preferences in advance, allowing you to make necessary adjustments for inclusivity. Having an agenda ahead of time can be essential for the wellbeing of some employees who might need to plan their route in advance e.g those who have limited mobility or are neurodiverse.
- Accessibility in Online Platforms
Ensure that any online platforms used for remote celebrations are accessible. Choose platforms that support screen readers and other assistive technologies, making it easier for employees with disabilities to participate.
- Mindful Gift Exchanges
Consider alternatives to traditional gift exchanges. Opt for inclusive gift options or charitable donations, allowing employees to select gifts that suit their preferences or donate to causes they care about.
- Emphasize Inclusion in Culture
Inclusivity shouldn’t be confined to festive periods. Foster a culture of respect and inclusivity year-round by encouraging open conversations, providing diversity training, and consistently considering accessibility in all workplace activities.
As we celebrate the festive season, let’s ensure that everyone feels valued and included. By implementing inclusive practices, whether in-person or remotely, we create an environment where every employee can fully participate and enjoy the spirit of togetherness during this joyous time of the year.
Merry Christmas from all the team at Evenbreak
