How to run accessible events

There are many ways you can be more accessible in the way your events are run. We spoke to Tibi Access Consultant Dina Bassile and got her top tips for accessible events.

Q: Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself?

A: Hi I'm Dina Bassile and the founder of Tibi, an access consulting company, specifically aimed towards the music and arts industries. Tibi has been created to change the landscape of live music.

Q: What is a disability and do you agree that different measures need to be put in place depending on the disability?

A: A disability is a mental or physical condition that limits a persons movements, senses and/or activities. It is always important to keep in mind that no two people are the same. Every person has different requirements where different measures need to be taken to suit them.

Q: Why did you become an event access consultant?

A: Living with a disability and attending live music events regularly, it became obvious that accessibility was not a priority. There was a gap that needed to be filled. So I got myself a bachelor of entertainment business management and a degree in access consulting and began my journey as an access consultant for the music and arts industry.

Q: You started your own business TIBI, can you tell us about its focus?

A: At the core of Tibi is a spirit of inclusivity and a will to open up gigs and events of all sizes to everyone. Together we will improve the recognition and removal of barriers faced by people with disabilities. This business is disability led and run.

Q: How is the music industry creating awareness about improving greater access?

A: The music industry is becoming more aware of how important it is to be inclusive and accessible to the disabled community. People are showing interest by approaching my business and asking questions. For this first time, BIGSOUND had a panel for industry professionals about the importance of accessibility in the music and arts industry.

Q: What are the biggest obstacles/barriers for a person with a disability attending events and or festivals?

A: There are many barriers that people with disabilities face when attending events however the biggest barrier is the lack of information that is provided online. People living with a disability need to research information prior to an event before attending or purchasing a ticket. Common questions that need to be answered are; what is the entry/exit access like?, Is accessible parking available?, Are there accessible bathrooms?, Is there a hearing loop?, Are seats available?... Having these answers available online saves a lot of anxiety and stress about attending an event.

Q: What are some things to consider when putting on a music event to ensure a person with a disability can attend?

A: Important things to consider are; having a viewing platform placed in an appropriate position where punters can not only see but also feel a part of the event, opening your doors to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community by hiring AUSLAN Interpreters. Another great and simple concept is having a space available for people to take a moment and relax. Any event can be overwhelming for some. It's important to have a space where people can rest.

Q: How can we better engage with people who have a disability?

A: The most important rule of thumb is to treat people like a person first. Speak to the person directly rather than their carers or interpreters. You can also reach out to a service, like Tibi and attend workshops and disability awareness training to better inform yourself.