Local businesses are being invited to an inspiring evening of real-life experiences, practical ideas and networking as Make it Market Drayton explores how businesses can become more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
The next free Business Networking event takes place on Thursday 12 November 2026, from 6pm to 8pm, at the Royal British Legion in Market Drayton, with a special focus on breaking down barriers and creating more welcoming workplaces and businesses.
With places limited, local business owners, employers and entrepreneurs are encouraged to book their free place in advance.
Learning from real experiences
One of the highlights of the evening will be the opportunity to hear from local people who will share their personal experiences of living or working with disabilities.
Speakers will talk about some of the challenges they have faced, the barriers they have overcome and the changes that could make a real difference to people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health conditions and neurodivergent people.
Their stories will offer businesses valuable insights into the everyday barriers that people can encounter, whether applying for a job, working in a business, accessing services or simply visiting a shop, café or other local establishment.
The aim is to encourage greater understanding and demonstrate how businesses of all sizes can make positive changes.
Accessibility is about more than physical access
When we think about making businesses accessible, we often think about ramps, doorways and accessible toilets. While these are important, accessibility goes much further.
It can mean making recruitment processes more inclusive, offering flexible working arrangements, communicating information more clearly, understanding non-visible disabilities or creating environments where people feel comfortable and supported.
Sometimes, relatively small changes can have a significant impact on someone’s ability to work, shop or participate in everyday life.
By listening to people with lived experience, businesses can gain a better understanding of what accessibility means in practice and identify opportunities to improve.
Building a more inclusive Market Drayton
Making businesses more accessible is not only the right thing to do; it can also bring real benefits.
More inclusive workplaces can help employers attract and retain talented people, while accessible shops, hospitality venues and services can welcome a wider range of customers.
The event will encourage businesses to consider how they can remove unnecessary barriers, challenge assumptions and contribute towards making Market Drayton a town where everyone has the opportunity to participate.
An opportunity to connect with other local businesses
Alongside the guest speakers and discussions, there will be plenty of time for informal networking.
Attendees can meet other local business owners, share ideas, make new connections and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in Market Drayton.
The bar will be open throughout the evening for anyone wishing to purchase a drink while enjoying conversations with other attendees.
A car park is located very close to the venue.
Book your free place today
The event is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, including independent retailers, hospitality businesses, professional services, employers, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in creating a more accessible and inclusive local business community.
Event details
- Date: Thursday 12 November 2026
- Time: 6pm – 8pm
- Venue: The Royal British Legion, Church Street, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 1AF
- Cost: Free, but advance booking is required
- Parking: Car parking available nearby
Places are limited, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Book your free place through Eventbrite
Come along, hear some inspiring personal stories, meet other local businesses and discover how we can work together to make Market Drayton more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
Make it Market Drayton is a town council initiative
