Diversity, equity and inclusion at ra-uk
What are RA-UK doing at the ASM to ensure those with young children can still access the content?
As part of the registration process, all delegates are asked whether they would like access to a parent room. This room will be a quiet and private space to allow parents to feed their young children in a safe environment. The WiFi will be free and available to all users enabling those using this space to access the conference online whilst using the room.
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Similarly, if requested, there is a prayer room to allow delegates to have a quiet area to pray and reflect if needed.
What does RA-UK do to ensure the venue is accessible to all?
The venue in Leeds has lifts for those who are unable to use the stairs, it has ramp and vehicular access and the floors are even and flat, allowing wheelchair users to travel easily throughout the venue. There are male, female and disabled toilets as well as a changing places facility. For those who are uncomfortable or are unable to attend in person, the event is fully hybrid and can be accessed online in real time.
How does the programme reflect RA-UK’s commitment to diversity?
The society have always focused on ensuring there is a mixed panel of speakers and this year there are more female faculty than male. The first DEI session was a workshop and was extremely popular so in 2024 the society decided to move the session to the main stage, highlighting their commitment to the DEI agenda. Again in 2025, the DEI session is on the main stage and is a highlight of the agenda on day one.
What will RA-UK do to ensure all attendees feel included, valued and seen?
The social programme is always an opportunity for networking and encouraging people to meet with colleagues and peers. The event app also allows people to connect and message other attendees, thus creating a safe place for communication for those who would rather not meet face to face. The delegates are all invited to use Slido to ask questions, which means all voices can be heard – even those who would rather not ask a question using a microphone. The opinions of our attendees are valuable and so we also ask for open and honest feedback post event. This is then used to not only make the following year even better, but shapes the programme around what people want to hear, rather than what the society think they want to hear.
How will the RA-UK Board ensure future events are accessible to all?
We are committed to ensuring all venues we use are accessible for all. One of the reasons RA-UK decided to ‘go hybrid’ was to give people the opportunity to attend virtually. This is appealing not only for those people who cannot travel, or who live a long distance from the venue, but also for those who find a large in person event overwhelming – this gives them a platform to engage with the conference, ask questions in real time, and be part of the event without having the stress of excess travel or networking. Alongside this, delegates with young children or other caring responsibilities may find going away challenging so the virtual attendance option enables them to access our high quality education without the need to attend in person.
