Camden launches accessibility pledge for licensed venues

Camden Council has launched a new voluntary accessibility pledge for licensed venues, aimed at encouraging hospitality, entertainment and cultural businesses to improve access and inclusion for disabled customers. The initiative has been developed in partnership with Attitude is Everything, a charity that works to improve accessibility across the live events sector.

To mark the launch, licensed hospitality and entertainment venues have been invited to attend a free event at the Electric Ballroom in Camden, where operators will hear from accessibility specialists, learn from examples of good practice and discuss ways to remove barriers faced by disabled people.

The Camden Accessibility Pledge is designed specifically for premises licensed under the Licensing Act 2003 and draws on established accessibility standards, including the Live Events Access Charter and the Grassroots and Community Accessibility Framework.

According to the council, the pledge encourages venues to make practical improvements in areas such as physical access, communication, staff awareness and engagement with disabled customers. Participating businesses commit to four core standards: accessibility as standard practice, transparency and clarity, inclusive and respectful service, and leadership and accountability.

The scheme is open to pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants and other hospitality and cultural venues operating within the London Borough of Camden. Businesses wishing to participate must complete a self-assessment and accessibility documentation, followed by a review by council officers. Venues that meet the requirements will receive public recognition through council listings, window stickers, digital badges and promotional activity.

Importantly for licence holders, Camden Council has stressed that the pledge is entirely voluntary and does not form part of the borough’s Statement of Licensing Policy. Participation will not create new licensing requirements and will not be considered when determining licensing applications, variations, reviews or enforcement action. Existing duties under the Equality Act 2010 remain unchanged.

Camden says the pledge provides a framework for licensed premises to demonstrate their commitment to accessibility while helping to create more inclusive, welcoming and safer venues across the borough.