The aim of Attitude is Everything’s Inclusive Communities work in the Northeast is to research, document and support how venues can drive change in their local community. As part of the project, we have created the Northeast Venues Accessibility Network, made up of 12 Northeast based organisations ranging from grassroots music venues to museums and theatres. The purpose of this network is to create a supportive space for peer-to-peer learning and access problem solving.
In May 2025, the first in person network meeting was kindly hosted at Life Science Centre, a network member based in Newcastle.
“It has been a real pleasure to be involved with the ‘North East Venues Accessibility Network’ where everyone learns together, in a safe, non-judgemental space. Earlier this month I was able to welcome everyone to Life, showing colleagues some of Life’s inspiring practices. From Sensory Bags to New Reception Desks, it was great to be about to talk all things accessible, with colleagues whose simple objective is to make our venues, more accessible for all”.
David Jones, Community Liaisons Manager, International Centre for Life
After the in person meeting, the Inclusive Communities team met with Ross Lewis at The Cluny – a Grassroots music venue made up of two venues aptly named The Cluny and The Cluny 2.
In Year 3 of the Inclusive Communities Project, we will be undertaking a piece of work to support grassroots venues and festivals, and community projects, known as the Grassroots & Community Model. At Attitude is Everything we understand that it isn’t always possible for grassroots and community spaces to tackle all areas of accessibility due to various factors such as funding, staff capacity, staff numbers or the management structure of the organisation. As a result, we are exploring how we can advise and support these venues, projects and festivals to improve their access provisions in an effective and meaningful way within their means. As part of our work in the Northeast we have an ongoing relationship with The Cluny & The Cluny 2 to ensure grassroots and community voices are at the heart of the project.
We will be undertaking a pilot of the grassroots & community model in January 2026, if you are interested in taking part to offer feedback on the new guidance and model, please email [email protected]
