Youth Beatz 2018 is an event for Scots of all ages, but is also pleased to be an accessible event – and more measures than ever have been incorporated into the planning for the Year of Young People 2018 Signature Event. The event will be opened on the main stage on Saturday 30th June by a talented group of young people with a range of disabilities and additional support needs from Paragon Music who have formed their own band. Paragon Music is an inclusive arts organisation that provides accessible, creative workshop and performance opportunities and brings people of all ages together to make music and dance, have fun, improve confidence and make friends.
For the first time, the event will have a raised viewing platform for people with additional accessibility requirements. The current hardstanding track network and level ground on the site will also make getting around that much easier.
As always, there will be a number of accessible toilets across the site, but for the first time we’re bringing the first Scottish Mobile Changing Places toilet – the pamiloo – to Youth Beatz. Previously, people with complex needs may have been limited in their participation at the event due to the lack of appropriate toilets. The Pamiloo provides specialist equipment and additional space and should make Youth Beatz 2018 an event for anyone.
If you need to visit the box office on arrival then there will be a hearing loop, and once you get onto site there is a sensory area/quiet space next to the Health and Wellbeing area if you need a bit of space away from the hustle and bustle.
If you are bringing a car to Youth Beatz, official parks for the event are in Dumfries town centre. Blue Badge holders can apply for nearby site parking through the Youth Beatz website. youthbeatz.co.uk/coach-blue-badge-parking/
Young People’s Champion, Councillor Adam Wilson, said “It is important to Dumfries and Galloway Council that the Year of Young People 2018 events are as accessible and inclusive as possible, and it’s great to see the steps that have been put in place to be able to welcome as wide a range of people to the event so they can enjoy their experience to the fullest.”
Vice Chair of Nithsdale Area committee, Provost Tracey Little said “Nithsdale Area Committee has always been committed to making what we do accessible to everyone in the Nithsdale area, and this year’s developments at Youth Beatz mean that ethos is extended to the whole of Scotland. We look forward to seeing everyone there!”
Youth Beatz 2018 would like to thank our friends at the Usual Place in Dumfries for helping with accessibility arrangements for this year’s event.
