Tips for event organisers

Creating accessible events is about making sure everyone, including D/deaf and disabled artists and audiences, can enjoy and participate fully. Here’s how event staff, promoters, and backstage teams can help make festivals and events more inclusive:

Plan for accessibility from the start

Include accessibility in your budget: set aside funds for ramps, accessible toilets, and other access needs early in the planning process.
Site visits: during site inspections, check for level access, accessible parking, and clear pathways. Look for barriers like uneven surfaces, stairs, or narrow spaces.
Access leaders: appoint someone on your team to oversee accessibility. They can ensure all access needs are met and act as the main contact for staff, artists, and audiences.

Train your team

Disability awareness training: train all staff, including production, security, and volunteers, on how to assist D/deaf and disabled people.
Communication skills: teach staff how to communicate respectfully, such as asking, “How can I help?” instead of making assumptions.
Emergency preparedness: ensure staff know how to assist people with disabilities during emergencies, including clear communication and safe evacuation routes.

Backstage and production considerations

Accessible backstage areas: ensure dressing rooms, green rooms, and backstage areas are wheelchair accessible and have clear signage.
Flexible schedules: allow extra time for soundchecks, rehearsals, and setup to accommodate different needs.
Accessible equipment: provide adjustable equipment and ensure pathways are clear of cables and obstacles.

Support artists and performers

Ask early: when booking artists, ask about their access needs upfront. Questions like “do you need step-free access or extra time for setup?”
Provide assistance: offer help with navigating the venue, setting up equipment, or finding accessible parking.
Accessible toilets: ensure accessible toilets are close to performance areas and regularly maintained.

Create a welcoming environment

Train front-of-house staff: staff should be ready to assist audience members with access needs, such as guiding them to seating or providing information.
Establish best practice guides: for lighting, smoke, noise levels, ramping, staging that can be used by performers in wheelchairs etc. Appoint an accessibility lead responsible for ensuring the guide reflects best practice on site.
Clear signage: use large, easy-to-read signs with high contrast and place them at wheelchair-accessible heights.
Respite areas: provide quiet spaces for anyone needing a break from the noise and crowds.

Evaluate and improve

Feedback: ask artists, staff, and audiences for feedback on accessibility. Use this to improve future events.
Document your efforts: take photos of accessible features and keep records of what worked well.

By making accessibility a priority, you’re not just meeting legal requirements – you’re creating a space where everyone feels welcome, safe, and valued. Accessible events are better for everyone.

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Last updated:: 21 November 2025