Accessible cinema
At The Light we believe the magic of the big screen is for everyone, and we strive to ensure our venues and programmes are accessible to all.
Every screen is equipped with wheelchair and lift access. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our regular programme of adapted screenings, designed to suit all guests, whatever their needs.
Relaxed screenings
We regularly programme relaxed screenings for neuro-diverse audiences and those with sensory sensitivity. To make these screenings more comfortable, the sound is turned down and the lights are only dimmed, not turned off and guests are welcome to move around if they want to. Our relaxed screenings are also ideal for youngsters and adults with learning disabilities and those who prefer a more sensory-friendly environment.
Relaxed Leisure Sessions
Join us for our Relaxed leisure sessions, designed for guests with autism or sensory sensitivity and their friends to enjoy where you can experience a calm and quiet environment with dimmed lights and reduced sound.
We will be running afternoon climbing sessions every Thursday at 4.00pm and 5.30pm and will also be offering 60 minute bowling sessions each Sunday morning at 9am.
Baby friendly screenings
Our baby-friendly screenings are aimed at adults with babies under one year old. The sound is lowered and the lights are dimmed to make baby's first cinema experience comfortable without detracting from the film for the parents or carers. We are breast-feeding friendly and have baby changing facilities available. We ask that a maximum of two adults attend per baby.
Please be aware these screenings are only for parents and carers with babies under one year old. Older children and the general public will not be allowed entry.
Captioned / Subtitled screenings for the hard of hearing
We offer regular open captioned (subtitled) screenings, which provide a transcription of the audio from a film, displayed at the bottom of the cinema screen. Along with the dialogue from the film, the captions include non-dialogue audio such as "(sighs)" or "(door creaks)" to ensure people who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing can enjoy the full film plot. These screenings may also be helpful for guests who speak English as a second language.
In most cases, films not in the English language will also feature subtitles.
Dementia friendly screenings
Our dementia-friendly screenings have no adverts or trailers and the lighting remains slightly raised throughout the film. Although these screenings are particularly designed for people living with dementia, they are open to the general public too.
Refreshments are served before the film to give audience members a chance to socialise and familiarise themselves with the venue, and guests are welcome to move around as needed.
Please be aware that pastoral care is not provided at these screenings and that a friend, family member or carer must also be in attendance.
Thank you to Iceland Foods who have kindly provided the refreshments for our dementia-friendly screenings.
Audio Description for customers with a visual impairment
For guests with vision impairment, we have an Audio Description (AD) system. Audio description is commentary that aims to describe body language, expressions and movements to allow blind or partially sighted audience members to better enjoy the film. The AD soundtrack is undetectable to anyone not wearing a headset and fits within the silent gaps in a film so it doesn't interfere with the dialogue.
We have wireless audio description headsets available to borrow, which are compatible with the majority of films we show - just ask a member of the team to get you one when you arrive.
Additional support for customers with a hearing impairment
We have portable hearing loop facilities and/or infared systems available in our public spaces, such as the cinema foyers or concession counters.
We also offer a neck loop system compatible with hearing aids to allow guests with hearing impairments to better enjoy the film. Please ask a member of our team if you require the use of this kit.
How to book tickets with a CEA card
We are proud to be part of the national CEA card scheme, allowing free entry for a carer or companion accompanying disabled guests to the cinema.
If you are a disabled person, you can apply for a CEA card allowing you to get your carer an accompanying ticket for free. You can book your CEA ticket online or in person at our venue. Simply choose the screening you wish to attend, select 'Add a CEA carer ticket' and enter your unique CEA card number. Select 'Add to Order' and complete your booking as normal.
For further information regarding the CEA card scheme, please visit the CEA website.
Assistance Dogs
We warmly welcome guests with trained assistance dogs into all our venues.
If possible, please let us know in advance so we can offer advice and support on access to specific areas during your visit.