An event listings website for users with visual and hearing impairments designed and developed by Pooka has been shortlisted for the “Best Website of the Year” award in the UK Public Sector Communication Awards 2017.

The Access Scottish Theatre website (https://www.accessscottishtheatre.com/) was shortlisted in the competition, alongside seven other websites.

Pooka worked with the Federation of Scottish Theatre and Birds of Paradise Theatre company and their audiences to develop a website that would maximise access to the performing arts at flagship venues across Scotland for audiences with a range of access requirements.

Throughout the process of developing with website we worked closely with, and were advised by, potential users of the website, which helped us to create a relevant and intuitive platform and to ensure accessibility for a range of users with diverse requirements.

Visit the Access Scottish Theatre website

Allan Ramsay of the Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh – a major user of the new website – responded:

“The new Access Scottish Theatre website represents a significant upgrade over the first iteration, from a venues point of view we couldn’t be happier as uploading productions and show information is now easier and clearer than ever before.

“Our audiences have also appreciated the way in which the site can be quickly tailored to different parameters in order to easily find what they’re looking for.

“The world of accessible performances can be a confusing one as not every venue can make the same commitments but the Access Scottish Theatre website’s integration with its social channels and email newsletters makes it a brilliant one-stop shop for anyone looking to find accessible performances at theatres and venues throughout Scotland.”