Spoken word is, or should be, for everyone. Whether an organiser or a performer, you have the responsibility of taking appropriate steps to make sure that the event is as accessible to as many people as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n As an organiser, when booking a poet, ask them if they have any specific accessibility needs.<\/span><\/p>\n If you are a poet with accessibility needs, inform the person who has booked you of your needs so that they are aware of the ways in which they can help make your performance run without a hitch.<\/span><\/p>\n Here\u2019s a short list of what to look out for when either choosing a venue to host an event or if you have been booked to feature at an event.<\/span><\/p>\n Is the space physically accessible to all?<\/span><\/p>\n Steps and stairs can be a barrier to those in wheelchairs or with mobility issues. All venues should have made reasonable efforts to accommodate those with mobility issues. For example, does the venue have ramps, stair lifts and\/or a suitably sized lift for people to gain entry and to get to upper floors? Are the toilet facilities adapted to be used by people of all abilities?<\/span><\/p>\n Larger venues should have space for wheelchairs in their auditoria or performance areas, and many have staff in attendance who are trained to help if needed. Smaller venues should consider that chairs may have to be removed to accommodate wheelchairs.<\/span><\/p>\n Where do I begin?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I\u2019m not in a prison most<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n People would associate<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n Being in.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n My wheelchair\u2019s my incarcerated space<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n You just can\u2019t go any place<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I watch with envy as the able bodied pass me by<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n How free they are compared to me!\u2019 I sigh<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I have to cross roads where the curb drops<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n And don\u2019t get me started on shops<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I\u2019ve lost count of the times I\u2019ve wept and cried<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n As most are stepped and I can\u2019t get to the merchandise inside!<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n It\u2019s the same with pubs, cafes, theatres and clubs<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n Why should I be denied drink, fun, culture and grub?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I feel like a third class member of this so-called \u2018inclusive society\u2019<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n Which is tantamount to fascist hypocrisy.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n \u2013 Olly Chester, disabled poet who uses Apples and Snakes<\/span><\/p>\n Is the event suitable for those with visual impairment?<\/span><\/p>\n Harsh lighting with sudden changes from light to dark can be disorienting to the visually impaired. Pathways should be clear and clearly marked (such as lighter strips delineating the edges of steps) as attendees may be liable to trip or hurt themselves on objects that they do not see. Larger venues should have staff in attendance who are trained to help if needed.<\/span><\/p>\n Is the event suitable for those with hearing impairment?<\/span><\/p>\nAccessibility<\/b><\/h3>\n