The Wales Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (Wales YFC) has long been a cornerstone of rural youth development, offering opportunities in public speaking, Eisteddfods, drama, singing, and community leadership to individuals aged 10-28 across Wales. As a bilingual voluntary youth organisation, Wales YFC is committed to inclusivity, ensuring all members, past and present, can fully participate in its diverse activities.
Recognising the need to enhance accessibility within its events and digital platforms, Carys Storer Jones, Marketing and Communications Officer for Wales YFC, attended the PIWS 4-day Champion Training Course at the Royal Welsh Showground in February 2025.
A Drive for More Inclusive Events
Carys plays a pivotal role in managing Wales YFC’s social media, website, and event communications. Given the organisation’s reliance on digital platforms to engage its audience, she sought to:
- Improve website accessibility to ensure clear, inclusive communication
- Optimise social media content for all users, including those with disabilities
- Enhance event accessibility so that more members can take part without barriers
- Learn from other event professionals to adopt best practices across Wales YFC
Key Takeaways from PIWS Training
The training provided Carys with practical solutions to improve accessibility within both physical and digital spaces. Some of the most impactful insights included:
- Making digital content accessible by structuring website information, optimising social media visuals, and using inclusive language
- Enhancing venue accessibility by creating quiet spaces and offering familiarisation tours for members with hidden disabilities such as autism and anxiety
- Strategic event planning by implementing accessibility considerations at the outset rather than as last-minute adjustments
- Collaborating with other organisations to identify common accessibility challenges and solutions
Turning Knowledge into Action
With the insights gained from PIWS training, Wales YFC is already developing a more inclusive strategy for events and digital communications. Planned improvements include:
- Creating a dedicated accessibility webpage to provide clear information about accessibility measures at events
- Integrating accessibility into building projects by embedding accessibility features into floor plan designs from the start
- Ongoing collaboration with PIWS to continue refining and enhancing best practices
Future Plans and Training Needs
While the first steps towards better accessibility are underway, Carys has identified additional areas for growth and training, including:
- Accessibility training at club and county level to ensure awareness reaches all tiers of the organisation, from local clubs to regional leaders
- Flexible training formats such as online pre-recorded inductions and self-paced modules for volunteers, accommodating the busy schedules of club leaders and county organisers
A Commitment to Lasting Change
Carys’ participation in PIWS’ accessibility training has given her the tools and knowledge to drive meaningful change within Wales YFC. The commitment to inclusive practices will not only improve member engagement but also reinforce Wales YFC’s reputation as a proactive, forward-thinking organisation that values all its members equally.
Through collaboration, training, and strategic implementation, Wales YFC is taking positive steps towards a more inclusive future, ensuring that young people across Wales can fully participate—regardless of ability.
