More accessible volunteering

Volunteers chatting at a table. One of them is in a wheelchair.

Photo: Leena Koskela / Suomen Punainen Risti

Accessibility is about considering human diversity. This applies to the built environment as well as services, communication, and attitudes.

Accessibility forms a whole that guarantees equal opportunities for everyone to participate. Accessibility must be considered in all our activities, as we are bound by both the Finnish Red Cross principles and the Non-Discrimination Act.

Source and further information: The Finnish Association of People with Physical Disabilities' website on accessibility (in Finnish)

How do I organize a more accessible event?

Do public transport links work well?
Is there a public transport stop nearby?
Are the parking spaces nearby? Are there also accessible parking spaces?
Is there a drop-off point for paratransit/accessible vehicles near the accessible entrance?
Are the walkways level and wide?
Are the signs clear?
Is the entrance covered, lit, and easy to find? If the main entrance is not accessible, is the route to the accessible entrance marked?
Can the area be reached without level differences? Or is there a ramp, and if so, what kind? Elevator? (maximum threshold height 2 cm, maximum ramp slope 8% i.e., 1:12.5 / for example, a 50 cm level difference requires a ramp approximately 6 meters long)
Auditorium/seminar room: can the rows of seats be reached? Where are the wheelchair spaces? Is the speaker’s podium accessible?
Is there an accessible toilet at the venue? Are there signs for it?
Are ancillary facilities, such as the café and breakout rooms, accessible?
Is the lighting adequate and glare-free?
Are the doors easy to open? Is the clear opening at least 900 mm? Threshold no more than 20 mm?
Is there a functioning induction loop in the room? Is it marked with the induction loop symbol?
Is the ventilation in the room good?
Has the use of strongly scented materials in the room been avoided?
Is the event fragrance-free?

Has speech-to-text or sign language interpretation been arranged? Is any other interpretation needed?
Have facilities and equipment been arranged for the interpreters? (Ask for their requirements in advance)
Can interpreters and participants receive the presentation material in advance if necessary?
Will microphones be used during the event (by both speakers and the audience)?
Does the lecturer/trainer speak slowly so that the interpreters can keep up?
Is the presentation material clear (is the text legible, font size/color contrast)?
Is the lecturer/trainer prepared to describe visual material, such as images and videos?
If videos are shown, do they have same-language subtitles?
Is the material to be distributed accessible (braille, easy-to-read text, etc.)?

When advertising the event, has information about the location, its accessibility, and interpretation or other arrangements been provided as accurately as possible?
Has information about the event been shared through various channels? Are the channels accessible?
Is it possible to register by email and telephone as well, and not only via a web form?
Has the contact information for a person providing further information been included?
Does the registration include questions about the need for assistance, mobility aids, or allergies?
After the event: where will the materials be available, and are they in an accessible format?
Is it possible to provide feedback through various channels?

Do the organizers have a positive attitude toward all participants?
Do the organizers have a positive attitude toward accessibility?
Are the organizers prepared to assist and guide? Is there a general assistant on-site?
Are organizers and general assistants clearly distinguishable from the other participants?
Can a personal assistant attend the event free of charge?

Welcoming checklist