Making participatory experiences fully inclusive can be a challenge. Foremost the issues at hand might require complex explanation – too little detail and participants might be misinformed. Conversely, too much detail might put people off.
Most consultation and engagement professionals have got to grips with the idea of Plain English and a consultation narrative aimed at a low-reading age and within a low-friction container. But what about reaching more diverse audiences?
The standard approach is to create an ‘easy read’ version of content, perhaps on demand. This is a way of overcoming engagement with various (mainly mental impairments or disabilities) – but is not very satisfying. We’ve always felt that easy-read content is the poor cousin of the alternative.
The scale of the problem is not to be underestimated. The majority of Britons may now be identifying themselves as neurodivergent due to an improved awareness of the various conditions. For example, there has been a huge surge in the number of patients in the UK who have requested an autism assessment, growing 22 per cent year on year to hit 200,000 in August 2024. The baseline is also high – in the UK, it’s estimated that 10% of the population are dyslexic and one in 100 people are autistic. Moreover, approximately 900,000 people have dementia. Reaching neurodiverse audiences more effectively seems like a priority.
Bear in mind that cognitive impairments can be permanent, temporary, situational or a combination. They can also be temporary. For example, fatigue, stress or bereavement. Designing for a wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Autism, Dyslexia and ADHD could therefore be of universal benefit.
Some of the solutions might come in the way of avoidance. For example, ensuring there are no flashes, interruptions, background noises, animations or use of unusual words in participation exercises. Some of the best gems we’ve found are in the Cognitive Accessibility Guidance (COGA) . Designed for web content, COGA helps to bridge the gaps in WCAG standards.
Here are the key takeaways: –
- Help users understand what things are and how to use themÂ
- Help users to find what they needÂ
- Use clear and understandable contentÂ
- Help users avoid mistakes and know how to correct themÂ
- Help users focusÂ
- Ensure processes do not rely on memoryÂ
- Provide help and supportÂ
- Support adaptation and personalisationÂ
 Another good read is this guide from Cavendish which focuses on considerations with regard to neurodiversity in planning.
 We’d love to hear examples of any of your own adaptations. Why not leave us a comment below?