Attitude is Everything found that 94% of respondents to its State of Access Report 2026 reported exposure to additional personal risk when attending live music and other events. The UK disability-led charity estimates that improved accessibility could bring £402 million in additional annual audience spending to the UK live music industry.
The report, the charity’s first major study in eight years, surveyed Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent audiences, artists and industry professionals. Among audience respondents, 58% recognised improvements in accessibility, but 67% described existing provisions as inconsistent or very inconsistent. Another 13% said they could not rely on them at all.
The cost of access barriers
The report estimates a “disability tax” caused by inadequate accessibility:
- Approximately £99 per audience visit
- Approximately £138 per artist performance
- Approximately £184 per professional engagement
Those costs can arise from navigating inaccessible environments and meeting individual access needs. The report also says disabled attendees and professionals are routinely left to identify barriers, resolve problems and explain access needs to venue staff without compensation.
Making access more reliable
Measures identified in the article include publishing accurate access information, simplifying accessible ticket booking, providing suitable seating and rest areas, maintaining accessible toilets and training staff. Artists and touring teams can ask venues about access arrangements and share those details with fans during tour planning.
The report estimates that disabled workers already contribute approximately £850 million in annual Gross Value Added to the UK live music economy.
