Great to hear of this work and happy to share this article from Suzanne Mantell, Visitor Services Manager at the Brighton Centre.

Set in the historic and vibrant city of Brighton & Hove, The Brighton Centre is one of the largest conference & entertainment centres in the South East of England, with a capacity of up to 5,500. The venue has recently been awarded ‘gold status’ for its commitment to Deaf and disabled music fans, following recognition by Attitude is Everything – the charity that 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 on-going 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.

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

The venue is particularly pleased about the addition of the Changing Places toilet, which is not just for the use of customers at the venue, but can be used by anyone who needs it when their Box Office is open (Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm).

Alongside the work with Attitude is Everything, the Brighton Centre also worked with VisitEngland and took part in their recent Access for All project, whose aims were to improve accessibility for all. Accessibility training for staff was a key element of this project, a large part of which was delivered by Visits Unlimited to more than 50 businesses from seven destinations in England. Staff at the Brighton Centre very much valued the training, which was delivered in a thought provoking yet still fun way, and which encouraged the staff who attended to aim for even higher standards in their plans to improve access at the venue.

More information about accessibility in Brighton & Hove is available from http://www.visitbrighton.com/plan-your-visit/accessibility