Going to the cinema should be a great experience for everybody. However, despite all positive advances, the lack of accessibility, support and adapted customer service means it remains a real challenge for people suffering from disabilities.
Here are the main challenges disabled people face in cinemas and our top tips for a positive experience:
Accessibility in cinemas
Getting access to screenings is one of the main concerns for many wheelchair users. Often, the only accessible seats are situated too close or too far from the screens, putting strain, pressure and stress on their bodies. Some cinemas don’t have any allocated space for wheelchairs or even charge carers for their tickets. Wheelchair users are sometimes forced to travel miles to find a cinema that caters to their needs.
Going as a family can also be a challenge due to the limited number of seats next to the wheelchair spaces. Nobody wants to be separated from their family while watching a film. There is also a lack of accessible toilets, lifts, parking spaces disabled people and their mobility cars.
Fortunately, not everything is doom and gloom! Some cinemas give access to seats in the middle row as well as caring customer service and strong attention to detail.
Tips for an easy day out
- Book your cinema ticket online if you can, so you can see in advance where the wheelchair spaces are located.
- If there is a lift, double check first with the cinema if it is currently working.
- If you experience any issues with accessibility, speak up and ask for assistance.
- Make sure you arrive early, especially if you are watching a popular film.
- Always check in advance that subtitles are available.
- Get yourself a CEA card as it allows free admission to a carer.
How many Wheelchair-friendly cinemas are there in the UK?
Cineworld is committed to providing wheelchair access at all their cinemas, however, it is advised to contact the cinemas directly before you visit for more information. The same goes for Everyman and Odeon. Most of the time newer cinemas tend to be more accessible and disabled persons-friendly. But it’s always important to check before you visit as facilities at every cinema can differ (even if they’re from the same chain).
To conclude
There have been many changes to accessibility in cinemas, however, there are still issues and areas that need improving. We need more wheelchair friendly cinemas with booths at the back, carer spaces and toilet locations to ensure that we meet the needs of disabled people, so they can enjoy a positive experience.
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