We use cookies 🍪 to enhance your experience on Live & Local. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our use of cookies.
We use cookies 🍪 to enhance your experience on Live & Local. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our use of cookies.
Thursday, 15 May
Accessibility
Venue Spotlight
Inclusivity
On this Global Accessibility Awareness Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the inspiring efforts of The Barn, Houlton - a venue in our network that’s taking meaningful steps toward creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.
We had the pleasure of speaking with the passionate team behind The Barn about their journey so far: from listening closely to their local community to implementing practical changes that make a real difference. As a proud Live & Local Accessibility Ambassador venue, The Barn has embraced the opportunity to learn, grow and lead by example. Their story reflects how small steps, driven by curiosity and care, can lay the foundation for a more welcoming space for all.
Read on to discover what accessibility means to them, what they’ve achieved already and what they’re aiming for next.
How has being part of the Live & Local Community touring scheme helped The Barn become more accessible and inclusive?
In partnership with Live & Local we have launched a survey asking our community what they hope to see at The Barn, our event space, in the future - not just in terms of performances but also how we can make the space more welcoming, inclusive and accessible for everyone. Whether it’s improving physical access, offering more diverse programming or creating a more comfortable experience for all visitors, we’re committed to listening and making changes where possible based on what our community shares.
What are some of the unique challenges you face as a small community venue when it comes to accessibility and inclusion?
As a small venue, every improvement requires planning and prioritisation from our team. The Barn is a flexible space so we have to be creative in how we use it to accommodate different needs. For instance, balancing with capacity and programming constraints can be a challenge and it's one we're actively working to meet.
How has your local community responded to the changes and improvements you’ve made through the scheme especially regarding access and inclusion?
As we are currently in the consultation phase, we’re eager to see how our community responds once changes are made. That said, early engagement with our survey has been promising, it’s clear that residents are enthusiastic about having a voice in the events taking place in their local area.
Have you noticed a difference in who attends events or how people engage with your space since focusing on accessibility?
As our Accessibility and Inclusion Survey is still live it’s too early to identify long-term trends, we're excited to see our communities reaction to the changes we are making based on their feedback.
How has this focus impacted the way you programme or deliver events?
This focus is encouraging us to think more intentionally about our event planning; from choosing performers who represent diverse voices, to ensuring event times and formats suit a wider range of attendees and adjusting the way we run events.
Do you think your work in this area has helped foster a more connected or representative local community?
We're at the start of this journey, but by asking questions and opening up the conversation around accessibility, we’re already receiving positive feedback from local residents who feel genuinely seen and heard.
What advice would you give to other community venues who want to make their community spaces more inclusive and accessible?
Start by listening. Engage your community through surveys, conversations or consultations, ask what they need and be open to feedback.
Thanks to the team at The Barn, Houlton for this interview,
For more information on The Barn and to discover what's on, please click here.
You've been added to the mailing list.
