GLOW encourages access for all
8 February 2024
This year’s GLOW in Weston-super-Mare is introducing new measures to ensure that the flagship event is an enjoyable and accessible experience for everyone.
Taking place during February half-term from 13 to 17 February, GLOW combines a ticketed light trail at Weston’s Grove Park alongside a series of free installations located at popular town centre sites. More information and booking is here: https://superculture.org.uk/listings/glow-2024/
In the run up to the event, organisers have been working with an access consultant and talking to groups in the area including Disability Access North Somerset to ensure that their needs are represented as much as possible at the multi-sensory event, which features lights, sounds and interactive experiences.
Dedicated Access Companions will be onsite to assist those with limited mobility, those who identify as d/Deaf or visually impaired and those who identify with sensory issues, emotional and social differences and neurodiversity. Assistance dogs are welcome.
Across the week, there are dedicated time slots with reduced entry numbers at 5:30pm (twilight) and 5:45pm, with smaller groups of visitors for people with reduced mobility or access needs that might prefer a quieter experience.
The majority of the event is wheelchair accessible, including all town centre locations. However, due to the terrain in Grove Park, parts of the trail may not be fully accessible.
Audio description tours are available on request, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and for people who require 1-1 support or cannot come to the park at night time, GLOW is scheduling an additional daylight viewing at 2.30pm on Thursday 15th of February. For more information, contact casie.wellbeing@gmail.com.
Find out more about GLOW at https://superculture.org.uk.
GLOW director, Paula Birtwistle, said: “We want to welcome everyone to GLOW and build on last year’s successes, which included an on site dedicated access companion.
“Following feedback, we’re introducing new earlier evening entry times with reduced numbers, an additional daytime slot, increased support on the ground from access companions, clear signage, more disabled toilets, extra seating, parking information and are liaising directly with community groups to provide the best experience possible for all.”
GLOW is conceived and designed by Weston-based artist and producer Paula Birtwistle and presented in partnership with Super Culture, Weston-super-Mare Town Council, The Grand Pier and PYTCH.
The event is made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England and Weston-super-Mare Town Council.
Main image by Paul Blakemore, taken at #GLOW23
