Disabled ‘feel discriminated against when booking for music events’

THE MAJORITY of deaf and disabled people have experienced problems and largely feel discriminated against when trying to book tickets to live music events, according to a new report.

The difficulties were highlighted by charity Attitude is Everything as it announced a new coalition to tackle the issue.

The charity, which works to help deaf and disabled audiences get the best access to live music, unveiled its Ticketing Without Barriers coalition on Monday as it published its fourth State of Access report.

Attitude is Everything’s findings showed that 80 per cent of the 349 people questioned had experienced problems while booking tickets, and that 79 per cent have been put off buying tickets due to non-accessible booking systems.

The research found that 73 per cent felt discriminated against because of their disability. It also found that, while 37 per cent said they felt the situation for deaf and disabled customers while booking access for live music events had improved, one out of 10 had considered legal action.

UK Music’s chief executive Michael Dugher said: “UK Music is committed to working with Attitude is Everything and being a part of their continuing mission to make live music accessible to all. We are proud to have supported the publication of this report and encourage the whole of the live music industry to follow those who have already played their part in making sure their venues and events are open to everyone.”

Attitude is Everything’s founder and chief executive Suzanne Bull said that in 2018 “every largescale music event should be allinclusive”.