IL Community News
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always one step ahead
always one step ahead
Although watching films at home on DVD is great, you just can't beat that big-screen and big sound system experience.
If a trip to the cinema involves the need for an assistant, the Cinema Exhibitors' Association (CEA) Card entitles the holder to one free ticket for a person accompanying them. To be eligible, the holder must receive Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance or be registered blind. The card costs £5.50 and is valid for a year. You can get an application form at any participating cinema, or download one from the CEA website. Even if a cinema isn’t part of the scheme, it is worth asking whether they offer reduced or free admission for an assistant or carer.
For blind and partially sighted customers, many cinemas offer audio description, which can be listened to through a lightweight headset. This isn't universally available, however, so you need to check when booking.
For deaf and hearing impaired customers, most cinemas now have an induction loop, and many also run subtitled screenings on a regular basis. Again, check the facilities when you book.
If you prefer your entertainment live, there are plenty of options.
Theatres in London and around the country provide assisted performances, with an audio description, captioning service, or sign language interpreter.
You can access information about forthcoming performances by contacting individual theatres or through websites such as Access London Theatre, Disabled Go and Arts Online. (links will open in a new browser window)
Provision for customers with mobility impairments is varied, so you need to check when you book tickets.
Live music is more popular now than ever, and there's plenty of choice as far as different genres go.
Not all venues are accessible, though, and even at those that are, wheelchair access may be limited. Again, you can find a lot of information online about which are the best venues in your town.
It is also worth remembering that accessibility at music festivals is improving all the time. Most festivals have viewing platforms with access ramps for disabled people and their personal assistants (PAs). These should have lighting, an accessible loo nearby and some seating.
If you buy a ticket for one of the big festivals, such as Glastonbury, Reading or Latitude, and you receive DLA at the middle or higher rate, you are entitled to a free ticket for a PA.
The campaign group, Attitude is Everything, has achieved a great deal to improve access to live music, by working in partnership with audiences, artists and the music industry. There is now a Charter of Best Practice being implemented across the UK.
Please note that information offered on this site is offered without guarantees or any acceptance of liability. We do our best to verify accuracy, but any advice should be used as a signpost rather than final authority!