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TRNSMT FESTIVAL AWARDED HIGHEST ACCESSIBILITY HONOUR
— 30/09/24
ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS TRNSMT FESTIVAL AWARDED HIGHEST ACCESSIBILITY HONOUR
THE FIRST DEDICATED MUSIC FESTIVAL TO HOLD PLATINUM STATUS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Scotland’s Rockstar Energy presents TRNSMT Festival has been awarded the prestigious Platinum status from Attitude is Everything, making it the first dedicated music festival to hold such recognition ever.
This remarkable achievement acknowledges the festivals ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all music fans. Platinum status is the highest accolade awarded by Attitude is Everything, a pioneering charity that supports the music industry to be more accessible to disabled people.
The award demonstrates the industry-leading commitment to accessibility, highlighting the festivals comprehensive measures to ensure that all attendees can enjoy a safe and barrier-free experience.
This year, DF Concerts Accessibility Team worked to create an inclusive space for everyone - the main stage accessible viewing platform increased by almost 51% and the introduction of a ground-level viewing area meant the Main Stage accessible area increased by 74% from 2023.
The festival introduced or improved several initiatives to enhance accessibility, including the development of a sensory tent and sensory kits for neurodivergent fans, the installation of accessible picnic benches throughout the site, increased accessibility training for staff and volunteers, the continuation of lowered counters and accessible lanes at the bars, the introduction of a volunteer running service, and the integration of the Nimbus Access Card for the 2025 festival.
Geoff Ellis, CEO of DF Concerts and Rockstar Energy presents TRNSMT Festival Director said: “We are incredible honoured to receive Platinum status from Attitude is Everything. Our Accessibility Team created a culture to ensure everyone working on the planning and delivery of the festival viewed accessibility as a priority, and this award reflects our dedication to inclusivity and the belief that music should be enjoyed by everyone. We hope other festivals look to TRNSMT for inspiration so that more spaces can become accessible to music fans.”
With this milestone achievement, the festival is not only celebrating the recognition but also looking toward the future, remaining dedicated to improving its accessibility measures to ensure every fan can enjoy live music.
Louise Hutchison, Accessibility Manager at DF Concerts said: “We are very proud of the full team who helped us achieve this award. From being awarded Bronze in 2017 and Gold in 2021 to achieving Platinum in 2024, it has been a lot of team work to get to this point. As we look ahead, we remain focused on maintaining and exceeding the expectation of our fans while working closely with Attitude is Everything to ensure the teams are listening to fans, learning, and continually improving the accessible experience at the festival.”
Alex Covell, Live Events Access Manager at Attitude is Everything said:
“Achieving the Platinum Award on our Live Events Access Charter is a recognition reserved for organisations that innovate, inspire, and truly connect with disabled audiences, artists, and professionals. TRNSMT Festival has not only met these standards but exceeded them. This year, audience members consistently praised the festival team’s outstanding work, expressing their joy at returning year after year and feeling valued as their feedback was heard and acted upon. The improvements were clear, and their loyalty speaks volumes.
“In addition to their remarkable accessibility initiatives, TRNSMT has also mentored one of our Future Leaders, working diligently throughout the year to enhance access for emerging artists at their other events.
“TRNSMT’s unwavering commitment to growth, inclusivity, and sharing best practices across the sector is commendable. Congratulations to the access team for leading by example and to the entire staff for their dedication to fostering inclusivity. I look forward to witnessing their continued impact on the live events sector as they maintain their leadership and well-deserved recognition through this award."
Some of the fans who used the Accessible facilities at TRNSMT this year said:
“…had a fantastic day but this was mainly down to how well the accessibility facilitates and the people work there were. Without that there is no way we would have enjoyed our time as much…”
“This has been one of the best experiences of accessible access and I feel a lot of the other gigs I have been to need to take a look at what you guys do.”
“I have told so many people about the positive impact this has had on me and my son who wants to come again next year…”
“TRNSMT ensures everybody has the opportunity to enjoy the festivals, with the safe space for additional needs.”
“I am really grateful that my son was able to have this experience.”