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A11yShip - The accessibility-themed escape room

Experience accessibility through lived simulation

A11yShip is not a lecture.
It’s not a slide deck.
And it’s not about catching people out.

It’s a shared experience that helps teams feel where accessibility barriers really show up - and understand why small design decisions matter.

What happens

Your team works through a series of short challenges together.

Each challenge includes simulated accessibility barriers that reflect real-world experiences - especially cognitive load, unclear instructions, time pressure, and information overload.

People collaborate.
They problem-solve.
They notice friction they didn’t expect.

There is no blame.
No testing.
No “right answer”.

Just reflection, discussion, and learning that sticks.

It’s commonly used by:

L&D teams

designing training and learning content

HR and people teams

shaping inclusive workplaces

Councils and public sector teams

creating services for diverse communities

No prior knowledge of accessibility is needed.

People don’t just hear about barriers.

They experience what it’s like when:

This leads to:

  • instructions are unclear
  • information is overloaded
  • time pressure increases
  • systems don’t behave as expected
  • better conversations
  • stronger team alignment
  • fewer defensive reactions
  • more thoughtful design decisions

It builds momentum because the learning is shared - and grounded in real experience.

Session structure

  • Facilitated experience led by Accessible Me
  • Small group collaboration
  • Guided reflection and discussion
  • Clear links back to real work and decisions

Sessions can be:

  • delivered online or in person
  • adapted to your context and time constraints
  • run as a standalone experience or part of a wider programme

We’ll help you choose the format that fits.

What A11yShip is not

A test of what you do or don't know

It’s not a test of knowledge.

Designed to catch anyone out

It’s not about “getting it wrong.”

Set up to be chaotic or scary

It’s not designed to overwhelm.

The experience is currently one of the four kickstarter options.

Next step

A11yShip is currently one of the kickstarter options.

A short Kickstarter call helps us:

  • understand your context

  • confirm whether A11yShip is the right first step

  • map what follow-up could look like

Frequently asked questions

How many people can take part?

Typically 18 to 24 per session. We can accommodate for larger groups. Two sessions can run in one day.

What’s the impact?

Teams feel barriers, then co-create fixes using personas - turning empathy into day-one behaviour change.

Is this just a training exercise?

No. It’s a facilitated experience designed by learning experts. You’ll feel barriers, reflect, and agree practical changes the same day. (We use proven learning design and a guided action process.)

Can it run in our office?

Yes. We’re fully portable; we can set up in a large meeting room, training space, or hall.

Can we host it for others?

Yes. Some organisations offer their venue to local businesses or networks and receive discounted hosting rates.

Is it safe and inclusive?

Yes. Opt-out at any time, quiet space available, inclusive facilitation.

Will people be overwhelmed?

We design for psychological safety and choice at every station.

Do we need special equipment?

No. We bring everything with us.

Is it suitable for all abilities?

Absolutely. The experience is inclusive by design. Participants can opt out of any challenge at any time.