A picture of access cinema headphones

Carers’ Rights Day

21/11/2016
Friday 25 November is national Carers' Rights Day - here's some details on what the Phoenix Access Cinema programme has to offer.

Friday 25 November is national Carers’ Rights Day, when organisations across the country will be getting together to support carers. The Phoenix Access Cinema programme is our way of helping people with extra support needs and those who care for them.

The Carers UK Adviceline gives expert advice about carers’ rights, financial and practical support, or other challenges they may be facing.

For new carers there is Upfront, the first online guide of its kind to give tailored financial and practical information.

An up to date guide called Looking After Someone outlines your rights as a carer and gives an overview of practical and financial support available.

Carers UK has also produced Being Heard – a self-advocacy guide for carers to help carers get their voice heard.

As a community based cinema and arts centre, Phoenix is committed to providing services for people with disabilities and their carers.

Since May 2013 we have been running our Access Cinema programme, initially funded by Creative England, The British Film Institute and Leicester City Council. It was extended to run permanently with support from the city council.

We bring together people with differing access needs to watch the best in world cinema and socialise with friends and family, striving to keep up with changes in social policy, advancements in accessible technology and best practice.

Presentation of a national Cinema Exhibitors’ Association (CEA) card at our Box Office entitles customers to a concessionary rate ticket and a free ticket for one essential carer. Apply for a card here.

There is wheelchair access to all public areas, spaces available in the screens, T-hearing loops at all pay points, accessible toilet facilities and ‘Changing Places’ space. Assistance dogs are welcome, and can go into the screens or stay in a quiet room with a water bowl.

We work with charities and organisations such as VistaAction Deafness, the National Autistic SocietyVoluntary Action Leicester and NHS Leicestershire Partnership Trust to ensure our Access Cinema programme meets local needs and that Phoenix remains an inclusive and welcoming destination for film.

If you want to find out more about any of these issues visit the Phoenix website or Carers UK.