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7th August, 2019 (Brighton) Over the past six years under current management, we have worked hard to make Brighton & Hove Pride diverse, inclusive, safe and accessible for all.

Our aim is to deliver outstanding access provision and attain the Attitude Is Everything Gold Standard, and we would again like to apologise that our standards fell short of expectations this year and the work starts now on ensuring that improvements are made.

Brighton & Hove Pride works with partners to deliver access facilities and services for the deaf, disabled, elderly and those with mobility issues, but clearly this year some of the plans did not work  as we would have wished and genuine concerns have been raised.

Our access provision includes a safe space at the head of the Pride Community Parade managed by Pride stewards for mobility scooters and on buggies for those unable to walk the 2.2 miles.

At the Pride Festival in Preston Park we have a dedicated Access Gate and team. Once in the park we have an Access Tent for information and support, wheelchair recharging points, accessible toilets across the park, changing facilities and a high dependency unit. There are BSL interpreters at the access gate, in the access tent, in the cabaret tent and on a platform in front of the main stage, and the signed performances are relayed across the park on screens. BSL users are also given access to the Gold Circle at the front of the main stage. Near the main stage, in front of the grandstand, we have an accessible viewing platform with space for wheelchair users and their personal assistant. For health and safety reason this facility is accessed on a first come first served basis. There is also a ‘safe space’ in front of the platform for individuals who require a quieter area.

Each year there are lessons to learn and we strive to listen to constructive community feedback. We have already met with the Chair of Disability Pride and representatives from Ditch the Label and are in contact with Attitude Is Everything and other interested parties. We remain committed to address all concerns and make improvements.