In March 2025, the SOCINTEGRA project “Development vector” was approved, with the goal of introducing modern and inclusive approaches in Riga’s museums, ensuring that blind and visually impaired visitors can enjoy a full cultural experience.
From May to October 2025, SOCINTEGRA is organizing
both in-person and online training courses for museum staff who want to gain
practical knowledge about creating accessible environments and providing
high-quality visitor services.
Main areas of the training program:
- Audio
descriptions and commentary. SOCINTEGRA specialists teach
museum staff the principles of creating audio descriptions for exhibits
and exhibitions, and how to prepare short, clear audio commentaries for
blind and visually impaired visitors.
- Tactile
models. Participants learn methods for developing and
using tactile materials, while discussing quality and accessibility
standards.
- Communication
etiquette. SOCINTEGRA experts provide practical training on
respectful communication with people with visual impairments, eliminating
discriminatory expressions, and adapting tours to visitor needs.
- Practical
workshops. Small groups work under the guidance of
experienced SOCINTEGRA specialists, creating and testing audio materials,
evaluating clarity, and developing tour scenarios with accessibility in
mind.
The “Development vector” project, implemented
by SOCINTEGRA, is a significant step toward building a unified, inclusive, and
visitor-friendly museum environment — a place where everyone feels welcome and
can fully engage with cultural heritage.
A total of 70 museums participated in the training
program, including the Porcelain Museum, the Latvian National Museum of
Literature and Music, the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Latvian Railway
History Museum, and the Latvian National Museum of Natural History.
As a result of the project, museum staff created
unique programs to adapt their exhibitions for blind and visually impaired
visitors.
The project was funded by the Riga City Social
Integration Program.
