BFI FAN: Access Directory

The BFI FAN: Access Directory is a new resource for UK film exhibitors. It offers guidance, toolkits, and practical actions for planning accessible film events for Deaf and disabled audiences. 

The directory begins with educational resources and progresses to practical steps for planning and hosting inclusive film events. 

Written by Charlie Little (Film Hub Scotland’s EDI Champion and Matchbox Cine’s in-house Access Consultant), it’s a valuable starting point to establish sustainable and high-quality accessible practices for your screenings.

SQIFF’s Deaf and Disabled Accessibility Guide

Work towards making your venue, events and online content fully accessible and inclusive with Scottish Queer International Film Festiva’s (SQIFF) Deaf and Disabled Accessibility Guide, supported by Film Hub Scotland.

Matchbox Cineclub: Principles of Subtitling and Practical Subtitling

As part of the Film Hub Scotland Access Forum, Matchbox Cineclub have done two ‘how-to’ guides on how FAN members can make their programmes as accessible as possible. If FAN members have any questions about captioning, from cost to practicalities of work they can’t undertake themselves, then please get in touch at matchboxcine@gmail.com.

• 1: Principles of Subtitling (Video)
• 2: Practical Subtitling (Video)
• How to Source, Edit, and Screen Subtitle Files (PDF)

Developing Deaf Audiences

The ICO commissioned this Developing Deaf Audiences guide to help understand the challenges and opportunities to improving access for Deaf audiences to cinemas in the UK.

In the guide:

• Quick, clear recommendations for cinemas wanting to improve their provision for Deaf audiences
• Feedback from our focus group with Deaf cinema goers aged 18-30
• Results from our survey of more than 250 Deaf and Hard of hearing audience members
• Results from our survey of 50 cinemas and other exhibitors on their experience developing Deaf audiences

Essential British Sign Language for Cinemas

Learn the basics with this great video.

Case Study: Glasgow Film Theatre’s Visible Cinema

This is an excellent best practice case study for cinemas keen to build their engagement with Deaf audiences. The guide (download below) covers:

• What the benefits and challenges are to developing a Deaf audience in your venue are
• What resources you will need to deliver a success programme of Deaf screenings
• Everything you will need to consider across your venue
• How to guide to technical delivery of Deaf screenings