At live events, accessibility means more than just providing ramps and seating—it’s about ensuring everyone can follow along and actively participate. While still a niche service with only a handful of specialized interpreters,
Easy Language interpretation is becoming increasingly important for breaking down communication barriers. By simplifying both spoken and written content, it makes events more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience.
To learn more about this topic, we had the opportunity to speak with Inga Schiffler, an expert in accessible communication and one of the few professional interpreters and translators specialising in Easy Language. In our conversation, Inga emphasised how this approach can transform conferences, making them more inclusive—not just for people with learning disabilities, but for everyone. Besides that, she shared her journey into the field, the powerful impact of Easy Language on inclusivity, and how platforms like LiveVoice are helping event organisers offer more accessible language services with ease.
LiveVoice: Hi Inga, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today! Could you tell us a little about your background and how you became involved with accessible communication and Easy Language interpretation?
Inga: Absolutely. My journey started with studying sign language interpretation in Spain and later translation and conference interpreting in both Spain and Germany. During my studies, I became deeply interested in communication accessibility—everything from audio descriptions for blind people to subtitles for the hearing impaired. Eventually, I discovered Easy Language, which focuses on simplifying content to make it more understandable. I knew early on that I wanted to work in this field after my studies.
LiveVoice: That’s fascinating! You’ve mentioned that Easy Language isn’t just for written content but can also be applied in spoken formats. Can you explain how this works in a live event setting?
“The goal is to make sure that as many people as possible can follow along and participate. This could include people with learning disabilities, those who are not fluent in the event’s main language, or even individuals who might struggle with complex terminology.”
Inga: Sure! When we simplify spoken language at live events, the goal is to make sure that as many people as possible can follow along and participate. This could include people with learning disabilities, those who are not fluent in the event’s main language, or even individuals who might struggle with complex terminology. At events, I often notice that when language is simplified, participants who might have previously been passive start engaging more. It’s about breaking down barriers so that everyone has an equal opportunity to understand and contribute.
LiveVoice: That’s such a powerful message for event organizers. What would you say are the key benefits of offering Easy Language interpretation at conferences or public events?
Inga: The biggest benefit is inclusion. By making language more accessible, you’re not just ticking a box for compliance—you’re creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and able to engage. It’s especially valuable for events that deal with complex or technical subjects. The more people understand, the more likely they are to participate, whether that’s asking questions, contributing to discussions, or simply feeling confident enough to attend.
LiveVoice: Do you find that many event organizers are already offering these services, or is there still work to be done?
“Most events that offer Easy Language interpretation are typically focused on accessibility topics, such as disability or inclusion. However, I believe this should be extended to a wider range of events, not just those explicitly tied to such themes”
Inga: There’s definitely more awareness now, but we have a long way to go. Most events that offer Easy Language interpretation are typically focused on accessibility topics, such as disability or inclusion. However, I believe this should be extended to a wider range of events, not just those explicitly tied to such themes. It’s still relatively uncommon, but when organizers do provide these services, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Attendees appreciate the extra effort to make the content accessible, even if they don’t consider themselves part of the “primary” target audience for Easy Language.
LiveVoice: That’s a great point. What advice would you give to speakers or event organizers who want to make their presentations more accessible?
Inga: First, empathy is key. Think about who your audience is and what they may or may not already know. Experts often forget that not everyone in the room shares their level of knowledge, and that can create barriers to understanding. Also, it’s important to avoid overly structured scripts. Spoken language is naturally more fluid—people repeat themselves, speak in shorter sentences, and don’t always finish every thought. If you stick too rigidly to a script, especially when it’s complex, you might lose the audience. Instead, use simple language, structure your thoughts clearly, and speak freely.This not only facilitates the work for us interpreters, but makes it easier for everyone to follow and engage.
LiveVoice: That’s excellent advice. You mentioned earlier that some people might hesitate to ask for Easy Language services, even if they need them. How can event organizers overcome this?
Inga: Yes, this is a common issue. Sometimes, attendees don’t want to admit that they’re struggling to follow along, perhaps because they’re embarrassed or don’t want to stand out. Organizers can help by normalizing the use of accessible language services. For example, instead of singling out those who need Easy Language interpretation, why not encourage everyone to try it? Announcing it as something available to all helps remove the stigma. It’s about creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable using the resources available to them.
LiveVoice: That makes a lot of sense. Speaking of resources, how does technology, like LiveVoice, play a role in making events more accessible?
“Silent Events, where everyone uses headphones to listen to the speakers, eliminate distractions from the surrounding noise and allow participants to focus entirely on the content. (…) Plus, it removes any stigma of using headphones because everyone has them on!”
Inga: Tools like LiveVoice are incredibly helpful. For example, Silent Events, where everyone uses headphones to listen to the speakers, eliminate distractions from the surrounding noise and allow participants to focus entirely on the content. This is especially beneficial for people who may be sensitive to loud environments or need a quieter space to process information. And with platforms like LiveVoice, participants can tune into Easy Language interpretations on their own devices, which is both cost-effective and user-friendly. Plus, it removes any stigma of using headphones because everyone has them on!
LiveVoice: That’s a wonderful approach. It not only improves accessibility but also enhances the overall event experience. Lastly, is there a message you’d like to leave with event organizers who might be considering offering Easy Language services?
Inga: I would say, think about accessibility as an integral part of your event from the very beginning. It’s not just about meeting requirements—it’s about making sure everyone feels included and valued. Offering Easy Language interpretation can transform the way people experience your event, giving them the confidence to engage and participate. In doing so, you’re not only broadening your reach but also building a more inclusive and welcoming community.
