As we head into the silly season (A.K.A holiday season), now is the perfect time for employers to think about accessibility and inclusion. For many Australians, the holiday period involves team gatherings and end-of-year celebrations at work. But if we’re not mindful, we can unintentionally leave employees feeling left out, unconsidered, or unable to participate. This article explores what it means to be accessible and inclusive and how we can foster a welcoming environment, not just during the holidays but all year round.
What does it mean to be accessible and inclusive?
According to the Australian Public Service Academy, accessibility is about ensuring systems are designed so everyone can fully participate in public or professional life, while inclusion means everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to join in and feel valued. Recognising and supporting individual differences is essential to creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. This involves careful planning when setting up events, designing spaces, and establishing systems so everyone can fully participate, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive needs.
Accessibility and inclusion in the workplace
In the workplace, accessibility and inclusion involves removing barriers and providing appropriate accommodations so all employees can thrive. This includes physical accessibility, such as ramps and accessible restrooms, and digital accessibility, like captioned videos or screen-reader-compatible materials. But it’s not only about access to physical spaces—being truly accessible and inclusive also means creating opportunities for employees of all abilities to connect, grow, and contribute equally.
Common challenges people with disability face during the holidays
During the holiday season, the final push toward year-end deadlines and a busy workload can lead to overlooking the needs of employees with disability. Simple things like inaccessible venues, overwhelming sensory environments, or a lack of alternative celebration options can make it difficult for some employees to join in. Taking time to consider accessibility and inclusion thoughtfully can make all the difference.
Tips for planning an accessible and inclusive holiday season
Planning inclusive holiday festivities can be easy and enjoyable with some preparation. Here are a few ideas:
Choose an event everyone can enjoy
Offer a variety of different activities that everyone can enjoy. Instead of one large gathering, perhaps consider smaller, sensory-friendly events or a virtual get-together option for remote employees. Providing different ways for your team to participate helps to ensure that everyone feels included.
Consider accessible venues and activities
When selecting a venue, check for physical accessibility features such as ramps, accessible restrooms, clear signage, appropriate lighting, and clear paths. Also consider inclusive transport options, like public transport, and parking availability. If you plan to host an online event, ensure it’s accessible to all with captions, screen reader compatibility, or an Auslan interpreter.
Use inclusive language
Using inclusive language in the lead up and during your event is essential for making all employees feel welcome and respected. Learn more about what inclusive language is and why it’s important to use at work here.
Practice thoughtful gift giving
Gift giving can be a great way to bond and build team rapport, but inclusion should be at the top of everyone’s mind. Consider promoting or choosing gifts that aren’t holiday-specific to respect different cultural practices. It’s also a good idea to be mindful of everyone’s budget. Try setting a “pay what you can” guideline or agree on a modest amount. Additionally, team members should be given the option to opt-out if they prefer.
Celebrate something everyone can enjoy
Remember, celebrations don’t need to be holiday-specific! To make everyone feel welcome, try hosting an “End-of-Year” event focused on team achievements or individual contributions. This approach includes everyone, regardless of personal or religious beliefs.
Inclusion isn’t just for the holidays
Inclusion shouldn’t stop with the holiday season. Building a culture of inclusion means making accessibility part of everything we do. Start by encouraging open conversations around accessibility needs so employees feel comfortable expressing what they need to succeed. For tips and guidance on accessibility and maintaining an inclusive workplace culture, check out our Diversity and Inclusion resources. To wrap up, making the holiday season accessible and inclusive isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and showing your team that you’re committed to an environment where everyone can thrive. Let’s make this holiday season a time when every team member feels appreciated and celebrated, bringing that spirit into the new year!