Brighton Centre has been awarded ‘gold status’ for its commitment to deaf and disabled music fans, following recognition by the charity Attitude is Everything.
The charity campaigns on behalf of disabled audiences and operates a nationwide Charter of Best Practice.
To qualify for Charter status, live music venues and festivals must demonstrate exemplary access provision and an ongoing commitment to improving accessibility – working with Attitude is Everything to go beyond the legal obligations set out in the Equality Act, to implement best practice, and to provide a fair and equal service to their Deaf and disabled customers.
More than 100 have already committed to the Charter, from large-scale events and arenas, including Glastonbury, Latitude, Download, The Roundhouse and The O2 through to the 14 mid-sized venues owned by Academy Music Group and a diverse range of smaller clubs and student union halls.
Brighton Centre was specifically recognised by Attitude is Everything for:
♦ Their long-term commitment to accessibility
♦ Innovative provision of additional viewing platform spaces
♦ Installation of a Changing Places toilet
♦ Working with local disability organisations as partners in growing access provision
Suzanne Bull MBE, CEO of Attitude is Everything, said: “The Brighton Centre has shown a real continuous commitment to accessibility which is required of a venue at Gold Charter Level. It can be difficult for a building of this type to put the gold Level in place because identifying the steps needed to make significant changes is a challenge. The team has put in some fantastic and innovative facilities. They have created space for a Changing Places Toilet which is not just for the use of Brighton Centre customers, but it can be used by anyone who needs it when the building is open; therefore becoming an asset to everyone in the city centre. They have doubled the size of their viewing platform for standing events by using a portable platform lift, and in so doing, they have also been able to make the platform higher, providing a better view for those using it.
“It’s not just the physical additions and changes that make this a gold Charter level venue, it’s also the amendments to their web information and processes, how they have worked with local groups and charities like Gig Buddies to make Easy Read information available, and how the whole venue team have taken on the challenge of adhering to best practice. They have aspired to the highest provision possible and in so doing, made the venue as accessible as it can be for customers, performers and staff.”
Howard Barden, Head of Tourism & Venues, Brighton & Hove City Council added: “We pride ourselves at The Brighton Centre on providing the up most experience for all our customers. As an older venue we have had to take an innovative approach to adapt the building to accommodate our Deaf and disabled customers, but also understand that it isn’t just about the facilities and therefore have supported the 150+ front of house team in receiving access awareness training, and so we are honoured that Attitude is Everything has recognised this and our commitment to the gold Charter. Over the years we have enjoyed a successful relationship with the organisation and have always strived to exceed the standard of expectations for venue accessibility. I am incredibly proud of the team at The Brighton Centre, they never stop pushing the boundaries of best practice and, no matter whether we are hosting a music gig, theatrical performance or stand-up comedy act, they endeavour to ensure that every single visitor has the best experience possible.”
In 2014, year-on-year sales of accessible ticket sales at venues and festivals signed up to the Charter of Best Practice increased by over 70% to 115,000 tickets, generating £5.4m for the music industry.
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