Access failings at music venues

A new report has concluded that clear information on access prior to events is crucial to deaf and disabled customers being able to make an informed choice about whether to buy a ticket, and the information given must match the reality of what is provided at a venue when customers arrive. The ‘State of Access Report’ was based on 130 ‘mystery shops’ conducted by self-defined Deaf and/or disabled people at music venues across the UK from 2009 to 2011. Less than two-thirds of shoppers found that access information gathered before the event correctly represented the actual access facilities at the venue; and under10% of venues were found to have clear signage a hearing loop system and accessible performances.