Hafren confirms reopening plans align with 10-point checklist to ensure Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent audiences/fans/consumers are not left behind.

Hafren can confirm that our reopening plans align with a 10-point checklist published by the cross-sector Audience Access Alliance. The Audience Access Alliance, founded by music and event industry accessibility charity Attitude is Everything, is made up of a cross-sector coalition of 13 disability and accessibility organisations and networks all united in working to remove barriers for audiences across the UK or in devolved nations.

Designed to apply to any venue or event, from football clubs and outdoor festivals to heritage sites, music venues, tourist attractions and theatres, the cross-sector 10-point list enshrines the key understandings and policies that need to be in place for reopening to be accessible for Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse people, regardless of the setting.

Our customers can be assured that our reopening plans align with the following:

Accessible Reopening Checklist

1. We agree that every person has the right to assess their own level of risk.

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2. People can find facts on our website about accessibility and COVID safety to make informed decisions.

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3. If we have tickets on sale, Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people can arrange the access they need.

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4. No one is advised against visiting our event or venue.

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5. No one will be challenged about their 'risk status' at our entrance due to a perceived ‘vulnerability’.

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6. Attendees are not expected to bring a doctor’s note if unable to wear a mask.

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7. Our COVID safety measures are accessible for everyone.

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8. Our street furniture does not obstruct accessible parking or access routes for attendees or pedestrians.

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9. Our staff have been trained in disability awareness and understand our access provision and COVID-safety measures.

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10. We are committed to listening to Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people and engaging with any new audiences gained online during lockdown.

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Note: Regarding point 3, we commit to having access booking available when tickets go on sale. Accessible seating available to book is still governed by venue capacity.

Hafren Theatre Manager, Sara Clutton, says, "Whilst we are not looking to reopen until Autumn 2021 at the earliest, all our plans to reopen align with the Audience Access Alliance's Accessible Reopening Checklist. We are making building and facilities adjustments as we are committed to playing our part in #BuildingBackForAll, this includes Deaf, people with disabilities and neurodivergent customers, participants and all other users of Hafren. Hafren also wants to maintain and develop all engagement with new audiences established during lockdown via our online sessions."