Industry News

Attitude is Everything’s live music accessibility charter backed by UK Live Music Group

Attitude is Everything, a charity focused on improving live music access for deaf and disabled people, has received support from the UK Live Music Group for its Charter of Best Practice.

The industry-funded UK Live Music Group represents the collective interests of the recorded, published and live arms of the British music industry. It has promoted the charity’s charter as the “industry standard” in access provision.

Attitude is Everything’s success in providing better access to live music for its underserved audience has been championed by its charter, which has been presented to more than 130 UK festivals and venues.

In addition, last year’s ticket sales in relation to disabled fans at chartered festivals skyrocketed past the charity’s own targets. Sales increased by 21 per cent in 2016, with a predicted economic impact of £8m.

“The UK Live Music Group is committed to ensuring that live music is accessible to all,” said Live Nation chief operating officer, Paul Latham, who is also chair of the UK Live Music Group.

“Attitude Is Everything has done great work over the years to improve the experience of music fans. I am delighted that the UK Live Music Group is taking a lead and has endorsed the Charter of Best Practice. I would encourage other parts of the industry to do all they can to make sure live music is accessible to all.”

The Charter challenges event producers to exhibit a continued duty of going beyond the legal obligations set out in the Equality Act to ensure deaf and disabled customers have a full range of access to live music.

“I am delighted that the UK Live Music Group is backing Attitude Is Everything’s Charter of Best Practice,” said Attitude Is Everything’s chief executive, Suzanne Bull.

“The Charter is a result of 17 years’ development; working with our music industry partners and disabled people to create a set of standards in access for the live music industry,” she added.

“The UK Live Music Group represents all quarters of this industry. Their endorsement is important in driving the message home that every live music event can be accessible and inclusive in some way, and that live music can be opened up to all disabled audiences, artists, volunteers and employees.”

In 2017, chartered events included End of the Road, Cambridge Folk Festival, Pride in London, Deershed Festival, DIY Space for London and Cambridge Corn Exchange.

At these chartered events, the charity has been permitted to carry out surprise inspections to ensure accessibility is up to par, as well as reporting back on practical improvements and solutions.

“The UK Live Music Group plays an important role within UK Music, bringing together the live sector,” said UK Music chief executive, Michael Dugher.

“The Group has rightly recognised the importance of ensuring disabled people can access live music events. We want everyone to be able to enjoy live music and UK Music will continue to work with Suzanne Bull and Attitude is Everything.”

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