Inclusion Scotland
A Movement Still in Motion
Strategic Communications Advisory & Project Management
Marriott Communications was appointed by Inclusion Scotland to provide strategic communications counsel and end-to-end project management for the development of a flagship organisational film exploring the history, impact and future of Scotland's Disabled People's Movement.
Originally conceived as a profile-led documentary centred on a prominent disability rights campaigner, the project evolved significantly during delivery following an unforeseen change in circumstances. Rather than simply adapting the creative output, we led a complete strategic repositioning of the project-transforming it into an organisation-wide narrative that better reflected Inclusion Scotland's long-term mission, advocacy role and commissioned research into disability activism.
Acting as strategic advisor, project lead and communications partner, we oversaw every stage of development-from concept refinement and stakeholder management through to production coordination, narrative development and final delivery.
The Challenge
The project began with a clear creative brief centred on telling the story of one individual whose contribution to disability rights had helped shape the movement in Scotland.
However, shortly before production commenced, it became clear that the individual would no longer be able to participate in filming.
This presented a significant strategic challenge.
The project subsequently required complete reconsideration. The narrative, structure, filming approach, stakeholder engagement and creative direction all had to be reimagined while remaining within existing budget parameters, maintaining accessibility requirements and preserving project timelines.
At the same time, Inclusion Scotland wanted the film to complement forthcoming commissioned research into disability activism, creating an opportunity to reposition the project as a lasting organisational asset rather than a standalone documentary.
Successfully navigating this transition required far more than production management. It required strategic judgement, stakeholder alignment and senior-level communications counsel.
Our Strategic Approach
Marriott Communications assumed responsibility for leading the project's strategic redevelopment.
Working closely with Inclusion Scotland's leadership team and production partners, Production Attic, we facilitated a complete redefinition of the creative concept, shifting the focus from an individual profile towards a broader narrative exploring the evolution of Scotland's Disabled People's Movement and Inclusion Scotland's role as a national convenor, advocate and movement-builder.
We developed the revised creative framework, ensuring the film reflected both the organisation's strategic objectives and the themes emerging from its commissioned research.
Alongside creative development, we provided strategic advice throughout the project lifecycle, helping balance competing priorities around storytelling, accessibility, stakeholder expectations, budget and delivery.
Our role extended well beyond communications delivery. We acted as the central coordinating partner, ensuring every creative and operational decision remained aligned with organisational objectives.
Delivery
Marriott Communications provided end-to-end programme management across the project.
This included:
Strategic redevelopment of the creative concept following a significant change to the original brief.
Narrative development, messaging architecture and editorial direction.
Development of the film structure and voiceover script, translating complex research themes into an accessible and compelling public narrative.
Coordination between Inclusion Scotland, filmmakers, accessibility partners and multiple internal stakeholders.
Project governance, timeline management and production oversight.
Management of feedback cycles, approvals and creative decision-making.
Oversight of filming logistics, interview planning and production scheduling.
Strategic integration of commissioned research into the film's narrative framework.
Ensuring accessibility remained embedded throughout planning and delivery.
Throughout the project, Marriott Communications acted as the principal communications advisor—bringing together creative, operational and strategic workstreams into a single, coordinated programme.
Impact
Despite the fundamental change to the original brief, the project was successfully delivered as a cohesive and strategically significant communications asset.
The final film became more than a historical retrospective. It established a powerful narrative around collective activism, disabled leadership and Inclusion Scotland's role within Scotland's disability rights movement.
The film now supports Inclusion Scotland's wider communications, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, providing an accessible companion piece to commissioned research while strengthening organisational positioning across policy, public engagement and sector leadership.
By successfully managing significant creative change without compromising quality or strategic intent, Marriott Communications enabled the organisation to transform a potential project risk into an opportunity for greater long-term value.
The project demonstrates how strategic communications advisory extends beyond messaging alone—bringing together leadership, governance, stakeholder management and creative direction to deliver outcomes aligned with organisational objectives.
"Marriott Communications provided exceptional project management and strategic communications support throughout the development of our film project. From shaping the initial concept and coordinating stakeholders to managing timelines, feedback and delivery, they ensured the process remained focused, collaborative and aligned with our objectives.
The project involved multiple contributors, evolving creative requirements and a strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusion. Marriott Communications navigated these complexities with professionalism, clarity and attention to detail, helping us bring together a final product that reflects both our values and our ambitions.
Their understanding of our organisation, commitment to meaningful storytelling, and ability to manage a project from concept to completion made them an invaluable partner throughout the process."
— Inclusion ScotlandInclusion Scotland
A Movement Still in Motion
This film is about a Movement, a history, and the ongoing work to create a Scotland where disabled people’s rights, voices and choices are fully recognised.