02.04.2013: Attitude is Everything has appointed UK Music’s Dorothy Levine to its board of trustees with a brief to strengthen the live music charity’s political influence and fund raising capabilities.

UK Music’s Head of Campaigns and Communications has been brought into the charity to specifically raise its profile amongst senior executives within the music business and other decision makers.

Attitude is Everything counts Robert Wyatt and Alan McGee among its patrons and already works with many leading live music venues and festivals, including the Brixton Academy, KOKO, Roundhouse, Glastonbury, Latitude and Lovebox, to improve access for deaf and disabled people.

But, Levine hoped this network of 71 charter venues and festivals can be significantly extended through the use of best practice audits undertaken with the help of a network of “mystery shoppers”.  This voluntary team of deaf and disabled music fans has produced over 120 reports in the last two years on the experience – and facilities – offered by venues and festivals.

Levine added there are a number of measures the music industry, local authorities and Government can do to improve the overall experience of deaf and disabled clubbers and gig-goers.  These include commissioning new research and training and recruiting deaf and disabled stewards, artists and DJs.

“Access issues are much more than being about a ramp in a venue,” said Levine. “It’s about finding out exactly what the needs are for a deaf or disabled person – its about a venue and company fully understanding their needs to ensure they get the best live music experience possible.”

Levine, who was recently named among Music Week’s 30 under 30 list, said a lot of Attitude is Everything’s work is about raising awareness and giving practical solutions through training and guidance. The recent introduction of the Live Music Act, which will increase the number of new music venues, will present a challenge for the charity.

“Hopefully there can be a two-way street of understanding between the industry and the needs of deaf and disabled people,” she said.  “UK Music, is currently developing its own equality and diversity charter for the industry, and is fully supportive of Attitude is Everything’s work.”

W: www.attitudeiseverything.org.uk
T: @attitudetweets
F: www.facebook.com/attitudeiseverything