New UK Arts Access Scheme, All In, is Launched

Details of an innovative pilot to improve the experience of disabled people going to theatres, concerts and festivals has been unveiled.

The scheme will be up and running next year after the pilot was delayed for two years.

Andrew Miller, who is the UK's Arts Access Champion, told BBC Radio 4's Front Row programme that he wanted the scheme "to fundamentally improve the experience of D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people attending arts and cultural events across the UK through barrier removal, making it easier to book tickets and to offer consistency".

He told Front Row that he had recently tried to book a ticket for a West End show.

"The whole process took a week and about three hours of my time. If I was not disabled, I could have done it in five minutes."

It is hoped the scheme will improve the way access requirements are shared, making it easier to book tickets, and provide training and support to help venues improve their accessibility.

The website also features a support directory for organisations to find accessibility consultants, freelancers, and organisations from around the UK. 

Access schemes already exist, including the Access Card, but the user has to pay to join, whereas the All In pilot is free with a plan is for the participating venues to pay a subscription.

All In is a partnership between Arts Council England, Arts Council of Wales, Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Creative Scotland and will apply to museums, galleries, theatres, libraries, performing arts venues and festivals.

Find out more about All In here.