Disabled artists in Bristol are reportedly still being excluded from opportunities, according to campaigners. Cathy Mager, a deaf artist and founder of Spectroscope, stated that while many arts organisations are committed to accessibility, there is a difference between providing access and showcasing work by deaf and disabled people.
Jess Douek, a singer with chronic pain, has secured funding to establish Bristol's first fully-accessible grassroots music venue. This initiative aims to provide a platform for emerging disabled artists who may otherwise be excluded. Quarterly gigs, networking events, and a talent pathway with festivals and booking agencies are planned to launch in early 2027.
Raquel Meseguer Zafe, a professional dancer, highlighted the importance of resting spaces in cultural venues and is working on a show at Bristol Old Vic that will include such a space, as well as BSL interpretation and audio descriptions. However, she expressed concern that cuts to government Access to Work grants, which help remove barriers by funding transport and support workers, could threaten the ability of disabled artists to continue their work.