Busy events can be particularly disruptive for individuals who are neurodivergent. And whilst there has been excellent progress from organisers in terms of providing a comfortable event experience for the physically disabled, only now are decision-makers beginning to think in terms of neurodiversity.
Building back better – considering the needs of all
The disruption of the pandemic has given businesses an opportunity to re-think their event strategies. Happily, there is a growing understanding that today’s spaces must consider the needs of every individual.
What the science tells us
Travelling, talking, and socialising with contacts and potential customers takes a great deal of time, a lot of concentration and buckets of stamina. Scientific studies have shown that everyone – whether a confident extrovert or a more reserved introvert – experiences a level of fatigue after a period of socialising. And that’s what events essentially are – opportunities for socialising, for networking, for meeting and greeting. Very useful, but also very draining.
Advice to combat this fatigue includes the use of microbreaks to reenergise, with research showing that even taking a break for 10 minutes or less can help replenish a person’s energy resources so that they’re able to re-focus on core tasks. But have you ever tried to find a quiet corner at a busy event?
How Nook helps
That’s where we come in. The inclusion of quiet spaces which are semi-private without being isolated should be an essential element of any event for companies looking to truly embrace inclusivity. People want to grab some peace and quiet. But they don’t want to be ushered away to some dim and distant corner to find it. Nooks are soundproofed, comfortable and restful, providing a haven of calm and wellbeing – a place to sit, relax and recharge. Such spaces are as valuable for exhibitors as they are for attendees – ask anybody who has worked a stand all day!
One Nook – multiple uses
We’re also helping exhibitors to address another challenge. Quite often, finding a quiet place to sit-down and conduct business conversations is difficult – stand space is often not private or discrete enough. Quiet, comfortable seating spaces double-up as meeting rooms – semi-private areas that enable progressive business discussions. What’s more, the fact that Nooks can be on lockable wheels, and can be manoeuvred anywhere on the site, gives organisers total freedom to flex to different circumstances.
If you’re interested in Nook for events can find out more by contacting us directly below.