The move to digital ticketing has brought genuine benefits: faster entry, reduced fraud, and instant delivery. But it has also created new barriers for some fans. People with visual impairments may struggle with QR codes on screens. Those with certain cognitive disabilities may find app-based ticketing confusing. Fans with limited dexterity may have difficulty navigating small touch targets on mobile devices. Here is what accessible digital ticketing looks like, what options are currently available, and how to get the support you need.
Booking accessible tickets
Most major UK venues and ticketing platforms offer accessible ticket types. These typically include wheelchair-accessible seating, ambulant disabled seating (for those who can walk but have mobility limitations), companion or personal assistant tickets (usually free), accessible viewing platforms, and seats with extra legroom or aisle access.
The booking process for accessible tickets varies by platform. Some allow you to select accessible ticket types directly through the standard online booking flow. Others require you to contact a dedicated accessibility team by phone or email. A few still require you to book in person at the box office.
If you cannot find accessible ticket options on the platform's website, look for an accessibility page or contact page. UK venues are required under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for disabled attendees, so the options should exist even if they are not prominently displayed in the booking flow.
Companion tickets
Most UK venues and many ticketing platforms offer free companion tickets for disabled fans who need a personal assistant or carer to attend with them. This is a well-established practice supported by schemes like the Hynt scheme in Wales and individual venue policies across the rest of the UK.
To access a companion ticket, you typically need to register with the venue or platform's access scheme. This usually involves providing evidence of disability, such as a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award letter, Disability Living Allowance documentation, or a letter from a medical professional. Some venues also accept Access Cards issued by Nimbus Disability.
Once registered, you can book a companion ticket alongside your own ticket, usually at no additional cost. The companion ticket is linked to yours and provides a seat or space adjacent to your accessible position.
Digital ticketing accessibility features
Screen reader compatibility
Both Apple's VoiceOver and Android's TalkBack screen readers can interact with most ticketing apps, though the experience varies significantly between platforms. Well-designed apps label their interface elements clearly, making it possible for screen reader users to navigate the booking process, access their tickets, and display their QR code for scanning.
If you use a screen reader and find a ticketing app inaccessible, contact the platform's customer support. They may be able to send your ticket in an alternative format or complete the booking on your behalf.
Wallet passes
Storing tickets in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet can be more accessible than using individual ticketing apps. Wallet apps are developed by Apple and Google respectively, so they tend to have strong accessibility support built in. The consistent interface also means that once you know how to use a wallet pass for one event, the process is the same for every event.
Large print and high contrast
Most smartphones allow you to increase text size and enable high contrast modes through the system accessibility settings. These settings affect how ticketing apps display information, though the QR code itself remains a fixed size. If you need the QR code to be larger for scanning purposes, some platforms allow you to open the code in a full-screen view.
Alternative ticket formats
If digital tickets are not accessible for you, most venues still offer alternatives. Print-at-home tickets can be printed at a size that works for you. Will-call collection gives you a physical ticket at the venue. Some venues will issue large-print or tactile tickets on request for specific access needs.
Contact the venue's access team in advance to discuss your requirements. They are accustomed to making individual arrangements and can usually find a solution that works for your specific situation. Do not assume that because the default is digital, alternatives are not available.
At the venue
Assisted entry
Many venues have dedicated accessible entry points that are staffed by trained personnel who can assist with ticket scanning and entry. These entry points often have less queuing, wider gates for wheelchair access, and staff who can help if you have difficulty presenting your digital ticket.
If you need assistance at entry, contact the venue before the event to ask about their accessible entry arrangements. Knowing where to go and what to expect reduces stress on the day.
Steward assistance
Venue stewards should be able to help you find your seat, navigate the venue, and access facilities. If you need assistance, ask any steward or go to the venue's customer service point. It helps to arrive a little earlier than the general crowd to get settled before the venue fills up.
Reporting accessibility problems
If you encounter accessibility barriers with a ticketing platform or venue, report them. Contact the ticketing platform's accessibility team or customer support. Feedback from disabled users is how platforms improve their accessibility, and many actively seek this input.
For persistent or serious accessibility failures, you may also contact the Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS), which provides advice and assistance on issues related to the Equality Act 2010 in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Digital ticketing is still catching up with the accessibility standards that physical venues have worked toward for decades. But the direction of travel is positive, and the best platforms and venues are actively working to ensure that digital ticketing works for everyone, not just the majority.
