The Blackburn Empire Theatre has launched a new online booking system for accessible seats and essential companion tickets. The system is designed to make it easier for customers with disabilities to book tickets to see shows at the theatre.
The new Blackburn Empire Access Register launched on the 1st November 2023 and replaces any previous schemes.
Previously, customers with disabilities had to call or visit the box office to discuss their accessibility needs and to book tickets. This could be a barrier to access for some customers, especially those who are uncomfortable making phone calls, who have difficulty communicating over the phone or are unable to visit the box office.
The new Access Register system allows customers with disabilities to book accessible seats and essential companion tickets independently.
To use the new system, customers simply need to apply to join the Access Register on the theatre’s website. Assistance is always available from our friendly team and through our social media channels.
The Blackburn Empire Theatre is committed to providing a fair and accessible experience for all customers. The new online booking system is another step towards achieving this goal.
How does it work?
The Access Register is founded on the Access Card, a nationally recognized disability card. This card, available at https://www.accesscard.online/, not only certifies disability but also provides access to a range of benefits and discounts at venues and attractions across the UK. The “+1” symbol on the Access Card indicates that the holder requires assistance due to a significant disability, allowing them to book an essential companion ticket without additional proof of eligibility. We also accept some other forms of evidence.
This updated system promotes fairness by relying on a nationally recognized disability card, ensures privacy by not requiring customers to disclose private information, and serves as a safeguard against potential misuse by limiting it to cardholders with the “+1” symbol. The Access Card also offers additional discounts and offers with various organizations.
To join the Access Register, please visit our website here: https://blackburnempire.com/access-register where you will also find more details about the Access Register, a section of Frequently Asked Questions and the application to join the Access Register.
Benefits of the New Online Booking System
The new online booking system offers several benefits to customers with disabilities, including:
Convenience: Customers can book accessible seats and essential companion tickets online, without having to call the box office.
Accessibility: The system is designed to be accessible to all customers, regardless of their disability.
Independence: Customers can book tickets independently, without having to rely on the assistance of others.
Commitment to Accessibility
The Blackburn Empire Theatre is committed to providing a fair and accessible experience for all customers. The new online booking system is another step towards achieving this goal.
The theatre has also made several other improvements to make it more accessible to customers with disabilities, including:
Installing new wheelchair ramps at our entrances.
Improvements to our accessible toilets.
Providing BSL performances for our major shows.
Offering relaxed performances for customers with autism and sensory sensitivities.