Between music venues closing at rapid rates, to artists struggling with touring costs, how do we re-imagine the music industry to center accessibility in our bid to rebuild?   

In late 2023, we asked a group 71 Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent music creators to share their experiences in applying for funding, promoting their music, and performing live. 

What did our research show?

• Only 48% felt confident in applying for financial funding  

• Only 10% felt confident in self-promoting their artist brand and music  

• Only 20% felt confident in sharing access requirements, that are protected by the Equality Act 2010 

Data paints a clear picture, but artists’ voices paint a more vibrant one. Here’s what they had to say:  

“A lack of visibility of similar artists (with similar intersectionality in particular) makes me feel not confident to apply for funding.” 

“Sometimes I feel all that is focused on is my disability and advocacy, and not my music.” 

The report features more stories from artists such as Benny Bizzle, Hannah Scott, Geo Aghinea, and Elle Chante.  

Collectively moving towards a more accessible music industry  

We hope as artists, professionals, and audience members reading the report you don’t become demoralised in the barriers we have to face. But rather inspired in how to work collectively for change.  

Here are some ways we are doing just that: 

• We have recently relaunched our Live Events Charter – a framework, toolkit and assessment process for the live events and music industry to show real commitment to accessibility. Within this, we have included more guidance on how to support performers.   

• In partnership with Beyond the Music, we launched the Attitude is Everything Presents online webinar series focused on supporting disabled music creatives and professionals. Guest experts included Elton Mass (Sony), Ann Harrison, Alanna Henry (Jazz; refreshed) and Tonic Rider.  

• We are leading our Talent Development Group in creating an accessible funding guide due to be launched in early 2025.

Attitude is Everything is calling on industry professionals to play their part:

• Industry journalists must respect the level of disclosure any artist wants to share about their experience of Deafness, disability or neurodivergence in line with the IPSO code of conduct. 

• Funding organisations must better support for disabled artists in sourcing and managing appropriate support workers for funded projects.  

• Social media platforms must investigate algorithmic bias, online abuse and platform accessibility so that artists are not excluded in self-promoting their work. 

Please email Henna, our Communications Manager, for the audio files – [email protected]

Below, you’ll find a BSL translated version including closed captions.

If you are impacted by the issues highlighted in the report, please consider joining our network or reach out to us via email: [email protected]