Accessibility in cinema

Films for sensory impaired students

This year's festival features more events with services for those with a sensory impairment than ever before. Film Education is reflecting the current move to expand the provision for all young people attending the cinema, whatever their ability. We would like to thank a wide range of partners for making this possible including: Action on Hearing Loss, BATOD, NDCS, RNIB, DTS, Dolby Laboratories Inc and yourlocalcinema.com

As cinema-going is one of the most popular social activities it is only right that all young people are given the opportunity to experience films where they are intended to be viewed, on the big screen, with their classmates, and share the enjoyment of discussing the film afterwards.

'Each year in the UK around 800 children are born with significant hearing loss, and every day another 100 people start to lose their sight. Thanks to the inclusion of hundreds of subtitled and audio described shows, National Schools Film Week 2012 will enable hundreds of children with hearing or sight loss to enjoy the cinema experience with their classmates.

For some it will be their first enjoyable cinema experience with their peers – the first time they are able to share the enjoyment of discussing the film afterwards. For all it will be an exciting, welcoming and accessible day out with their friends.'

—Derek Brandon
www.yourlocalcinema.com