Every Voice on the Trail: Why Communication Access Matters in Adventure Care

When you're leading a hike through misty hills or guiding a group across a rugged coastline, communication is everything. It's how we give instructions, check in on wellbeing, share knowledge — and more deeply, how we build trust and belonging in the outdoors.

But what happens when someone in the group can’t communicate the same way others do? What if they have a speech difficulty, use an AAC device, or struggle with fast verbal instructions? Are they left out, or left behind?

As adventure caretakers, we have a duty of care not just for physical safety — but for communication inclusion. This is where the concept of communication access comes in.

What Is Communication Access?

According to Scope Australia, communication access means that everyone — regardless of their communication style or ability — can express themselves and be understood. It’s about removing communication barriers and supporting inclusive interaction.

Communication difficulties can affect speech, language, understanding, reading, writing, and using or interpreting symbols. They can be permanent (like after a stroke or from a developmental condition) or temporary (like from anxiety, trauma, or sensory overload).

And here's the kicker: 1 in 7 Australians will experience a communication difficulty in their lifetime.

Lessons from Public Transport: What Trains Teach Us About Trails

In a 2019 study, researchers Bigby, O’Halloran and colleagues explored how people with communication disabilities experience train travel. The findings resonate powerfully with adventure contexts.

Participants reported:

• Inconsistent signage and announcements

• Unpredictable systems (changes to routes or stops)

• Hesitation to ask staff for help

• Variable staff responses — some helpful, others dismissive

Their message was clear: communication barriers are exhausting, disempowering, and often invisible to those who don’t face them.

Outdoor adventures are no different — often with even more unpredictability. If someone can’t quickly process spoken instructions, or feels unsure asking for help, their safety and experience can be compromised.

So What Can We Do?

Adventure caretakers can create communication-accessible environments, even in remote or rugged settings. Here’s how:

1. Train Your Team

Build awareness of communication diversity. Teach simple techniques like:

• Speaking clearly and at a steady pace

• Using gestures or pointing

• Allowing extra processing time

• Checking understanding gently (“Should I say that another way?”)

2. Use Visual and Symbolic Supports

Carry simple tools like:

• Picture-based instruction cards

• Laminated communication boards

• Dry-erase boards for quick written exchanges

• Icons for safety signs or gear instructions

3. Be Consistent and Predictable

Just like in transport systems, consistency helps reduce confusion. Standardise your safety briefings, signs, and routines.

4. Create a Culture of Respect

Normalize different ways of communicating. Encourage all team members to be approachable and patient. Make it clear that asking for clarification is welcomed, not a bother.

5. Seek Feedback

Invite participants to share (in any format) how communication worked for them. What helped? What didn’t? Inclusion grows from listening.

The Goal: Every Voice Belongs

Creating communication access in adventure settings is not about adding complexity — it's about removing barriers. It's about empowering participants who might otherwise go unheard or misunderstood. It's about giving everyone the confidence to express themselves.

Let’s make sure every voice can be heard on the trail.