My daughter is Deaf and she absolutely loves films. However, the joy of watching a film in a cinema with others is inaccessible to her due to the lack of available subtitles. This is not just an inconvenience; it’s a form of discrimination against people like her who depend on subtitles to access dialogue and follow narratives.

In the UK, and indeed globally, Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals face limited opportunities to enjoy films in cinemas. The current provision for subtitled films is shockingly scarce, often restricted to inconvenient times or limited showings. This exclusion not only undermines their right to equal access to cultural experiences but also alienates them from a popular social activity.

The UK Equality Act 2010 mandates non-discriminatory practices and equal access to goods and services, including public entertainment. Despite this, very few cinemas take proactive measures to ensure accessibility for everyone. It's time for change.

We are calling for legislation requiring all cinemas to offer an option for subtitled screenings for every movie they show. This change is not only necessary but is a moral imperative to promote inclusivity and equality.

Statistics indicate that there are over 11 million people in the UK with some form of hearing loss, out of which around 90,000 are profoundly Deaf. By implementing mandatory subtitled screenings, cinemas can foster an environment of inclusivity, allowing millions more to enjoy the art of cinema.

I urge cinema chains, policymakers, and stakeholders to work together to make this happen. Audiences with hearing impairments should not be left behind.

Please sign this petition to support the call for mandatory subtitles on all films in cinemas. Let’s make cinemas enjoyable and accessible to everyone, regardless of hearing ability.