First Direct Arena

Went to the Leeds Arena for my eldest grandson’s Graduation and I was very impressed with the accessibility of the whole venue. I use a mobility scooter and walk very short distances with elbow crutches. The accessible seating was all level access with chairs which folded up to allow me to remain on my scooter and there was lots of space to enable me to manoeuvre the scooter into the space and space behind for others to access along the row. The accessible toilet was Radar key operated. I always carry my Radar key but the member of staff who showed me to the toilet offered a key if required. The toilet was very clean with lots of space for be to be able to drive my scooter in and plenty of grab rails. The red cord was close by the toilet and reached to the floor. There was also an emergency call switch on the wall at the other side which could have been reached from the floor had I fallen at that side. A very good venue. The only downside is that there is no onsite parking although we were able to park in a blue badge space very close to the venue.

Disabled access entry point is clearly sign posted, which takes you to the ground floor. There are lifts to every tier- complete level access! Plenty of staff around in yellow jackets to direct you to where you need to go/to ask any questions. All were friendly, and, knowledgeable about access and where to find things we wanted. Bar/food about 50-ish steps to the left or right of the lift, with toilets almost immediately after. In the main room itself, the disabled access seating goes all the way around the venue at the top of the lower tier. The view was incredible! (photo doesn't do it justice). Disabled toilets positioned both at men's and women's bathrooms with grab rails, pull cord not tied up. I wasn't aware of a changing place, but there may have been one available elsewhere. Merchandise was available on the ground floor. They are sliver rated for best practice by the charity Attitude is Everything, who work with venues to improve access to live music.

This is the best arena we have visited for accessibility, well trained staff and affordability eg. Allowing a free ticket for a companion/carer. Seating is well positioned and sometimes on front row of the floor (depending on which show). My husband is wheelchair bound but also visually impaired.