Organisers of Bedford Summer Sessions say they are committed to making their concerts accessible for all, and this year they’re taking that support further by introducing a new sensory room for those with hidden disabilities.
The new neurodivergent-friendly space, run by specialist organisation EventWell, complements their accessibility areas and BSL interpreters, supporting those with anxiety, PTSD and sensory processing differences.
Steven Gordon-Wilson, who works for promoters Cuffe & Taylor, told the Bedford Independent, “Year on year, we’re seeing more customers coming through with different needs.
“It’s so important for us that all our customers have a great time.”
Gordon-Wilson says they want to make their concerts accessible to all, and while raised platforms and accessible toilets are there for people with physical challenges, the new neurodivergent-friendly space is there for those with hidden disabilities.
This then gives those who need it a time-out to regulate and reset.
Alongside the SensoryCalm zone, the concert promoters are handing out sensory bags that include tools such as fidget toys to help those who may need a distraction or support to manage sensory overload on their terms.
This means music lovers who may also struggle with sensory overload can still enjoy the music they love in a live setting, knowing there is support if needed.
And as Gordon-Wilson tells us, those with accessibility needs are looked after by specially trained staff from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.
“They come to our box office and meet our highly trained accessibility box office team who will meet them, talk about their needs, and make sure they get access to all the right resources,” he said.
SensoryCalm
Helen Moon, CEO of EventWell, who are providing the SensoryCalm space for this weekend’s concert series in Bedford Park, says their aim is to remove the barriers some people face when it comes to enjoying live music.
“Having a supervised SensoryCalm space at an event isn’t about separating people from the event experience – it’s about making sure more people can be part of it,” she says.
“Live events can be overwhelming for many attendees, whether they’re autistic, have ADHD, have anxiety, PTSD, sensory processing differences, or simply need a quiet moment to regulate and recharge.
“By providing a professionally designed and supervised sensory space, organisers are recognising that accessibility isn’t just about physical access; it’s about creating environments where people feel psychologically safe, supported and able to participate fully.
“When we remove barriers to attendance, everyone benefits. At EventWell, we believe accessibility should never be an afterthought.
“It should be built into the event experience from the outset, because everyone deserves the opportunity to attend, connect and enjoy events in a way that works for them.”
Gordon-Wilson agrees, “People want to come out and enjoy their lives. There’s no reason why people, because they have sensory issues or any reason, shouldn’t be able to enjoy concerts.
“We think these shows are for everybody, for people in Bedford and beyond, and we will look after you, whatever you need.”
Bedford Summer Sessions continues with UB40 feat. Ali Campbell tonight (Friday), Tom Grennan on Saturday (4 July) and Paul Weller on Sunday (5 July). You can get tickets here.
