Please help sign this petition to push for inclusivity and accessibility for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing at UK Cinemas.

I have seen from personal experience that the limited availability of subtitled screenings and the scarcity of personal captioning devices in UK cinemas exclude the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals from fully enjoying the magical experience of cinema. Seeing people close to me miss out due to these preventable barriers genuinely disheartens me. However, observing the inclusivity ingrained in US cinemas gives me hope for change. 

Over 18 Million People in the UK have some level of deafness/hearing loss. 

The need for inclusivity is not just a personal desire, but a mandated requirement. Under the Equality Act 2010, cinemas are obliged to make reasonable adjustments for disabled individuals. Yet, many UK cinemas are falling short of this duty.

Personal captioning devices such as glasses or handheld displays improve accessibility without disturbing other film-goers—a solution demonstrated in US cinemas. We also need to see a higher frequency of subtitled screenings in our theaters. These actions can ensure inclusivity for deaf audiences, aligning with the spirit of the Equality Act 2010 and enriching our shared cultural experiences.

Most, if not all, big cinema chains in the US offer a wide variety of accessibility options. For example, AMC Theatres offers Assistive Listening and Closed Captioning Devices at ALL locations. The same AMC Theatres that owns Odeon in the UK but doesn’t offer that solution here.

The cinema chains, the UK Cinema Association, and the UK government need to fulfil their responsibilities. Let's strive together for a truly inclusive cinema experience, not only for those close to me but for every deaf individual who seeks to enjoy the magic of cinema.

Please, lend your support by signing this petition and help us bring about this essential change.