Accessibility

Edinburgh

While Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city, its layout can present challenges for travellers with reduced mobility. The city is built on several hills, and areas such as the Old Town feature steep streets, cobblestones, and narrow pavements. These conditions may make navigation more difficult for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.

However, many parts of the city, especially the New Town and modern areas, are more accessible, and public transport has improved significantly in recent years. With some planning, Edinburgh can be explored comfortably by most visitors. For detailed guidance and resources, visitors are encouraged to consult the official local accessibility information services.

RIPE Meeting Venue

RIPE 92 takes place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). The venue is purpose-built for conferences and designed with accessibility in mind.

The meeting rooms, including plenary and side rooms, are located on fully accessible floors within the venue. Step-free access is available throughout the building, making it easy for wheelchair users and guests with mobility impairments to navigate between spaces.

Elevators connect all levels of the venue, ensuring smooth access between entrances, meeting rooms, and other facilities.

Ramps and accessible routes are provided where needed, including access to stages in the main and breakout rooms.

Find more information on this page.

Neuroinclusivity

The EICC places a strong emphasis on neuroinclusivity, recognising that conferences can be challenging environments for people with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. The venue works closely with organisations such as the National Autistic Society and has implemented staff training and dedicated resources to support neurodivergent visitors.

Resources such as Autism-Friendly Visitor Guides and event planning tools are available, helping attendees prepare in advance and feel more comfortable in the space. The venue also promotes best practices like clear communication, sensory awareness, and supportive staff presence throughout events.

In addition, the EICC is actively involved in advancing industry standards, including the development of a Neurodiversity in Events Checklist to help create more inclusive conference environments.