In nightlife, information is often withheld, either to cultivate an air of mystery or to preserve the spontaneity of the experience. For instance, a nightclub owner once explained to us that sharing venue maps online could “spoil the excitement of discovering the space firsthand.”
However, for people with access needs, this lack of transparency can create significant barriers. Without clear information, they are unable to adequately plan for their night out, which often leads to choosing not to attend at all. Transparency about your venue—through the open sharing of essential details like maps, layouts, and facilities—is a fundamental step toward creating a more inclusive and accessible space. Far from detracting from the experience, it ensures that everyone can fully participate and enjoy nightlife without unnecessary stress or exclusion.
On another note, if your venue or event cannot accommodate a person or a communities access needs
BE TRANSPARENT, TELL THE TRUTH.
It is more likely you will gain the respect of the community and ensure the safety of people with access needs by being honest and saying sorry we cannot accommodate for those access needs because XYZ. After being transparent and communicating this, then ask yourself - how in the future can I accommodate for that person’s access needs and you can make that happen for a future event.
Examples of transparency:
- Sharing venue accessibility information at the point of buying tickets (Resident Advisor , OutSavvy, etc)
- Sharing event and venue accessibility information on social media channels and your website (if you have one)
- Include access information for those with physical and hidden disabilities
- Share venue maps, floorplan layouts
- If you cannot accommodate for access needs be honest and tell people
Information should be communicated before and during events. Provide accessible contact options for inquiries and consider developing a comprehensive 'Venue Accessibility Plan,' for the highest level of transparency regarding accessibility. Empowering individuals to make informed choices about their well-being involves a proactive approach to disseminating clear information both before and during an event.