071 Access – How Do We Get Better?

Convener: Nick Sweeting

Participants: Various – please add name if you were there

Deepa Shastri, Nadine Ishani, Helen Pringle, Becci Haines

Summary of discussion, conclusions and/or recommendations:

- Attitude is all important
- Be inclusive – include “targeted’ groups in planning
- Look at what’s been done before inc research
- ACE funded buildings have obligations
- Opportunity of 2012 Paralympics – inc people with other languages – or general Olympics too but with Access
- Keep customers in mind
- Who do we influence?
- Theatres only open access at specific times and with specific companies
- A long ‘nagging’ journey
- Colour schemes…..affect everyone
- Internet – feedback forums
- Accessible print – RNIB Website – guideline – good example = New Wolsey
- Print matching audience
- Inc Marketing department in access discussions
- Mktg to Deaf audiences – awareness of signing and captions
- Access for immersive performances/1 to 1 performances – include Deaf and disabled people in the rehearsal/development process
- Signing/description for impro shows

ACTION
Not all the onus should be on Companies like Graeae and deafinitely Theatre –
non Deaf and disabled led companies need to get involved.
Nick and Improbable to enquire how to take things forward…..meet 2012 team – Steve Mannix?