Top Ten Tips to Boost Inclusivity in Your Church

1. If you are investing in wheelchair ramps, make sure they are designed for a door that is usually open. If you have more than one door, make sure there are ‘welcomers’ at each one.

2. Think about the language you use. Instead of saying “Please stand”, say, “Please stand if you are able.”

3. Use ‘friendly’ fonts which are easier for people to read, e.g. Arial, Verdana, Tahoma, Century Gothic, Trebuchet, and Calibri. Text should be at least size 12, avoiding italics, all caps, and difficult colours.

4. Avoid fluorescent or compact-fluorescent bulbs if you can. Also, try to avoid bright spotlights.

5. If you have a loop system in place, make sure that it’s tested and working properly. Also make sure that posters are displayed to let worshippers know that they can use the loop.

6. Make your printed materials available online. These could be emailed in advance or downloaded by visitors. The text can then be enlarged on a screen, if necessary. Also, don’t assume that someone using a phone or laptop isn’t paying attention!

7. If your website includes images, make sure a description of the image added to “alt text.” Alt Text is read aloud by a screen reader.

8. Consider ways in which those with mobility impairments can go up to receive communion along with the rest of the congregation.

9. Don’t touch someone without asking them first. Don’t grab a person who is blind or pet a guide dog without asking permission. Respect personal autonomy and don’t touch someone’s wheelchair without asking.

10. Think about identifying a quiet space, where someone could go if they feel overloaded during the service. Normalise being able to get up and go outside if necessary.