A WOMAN who set up a campaign group as part of her tireless pursuit of equality for deaf and disabled people has been made an MBE.
Suzanne Bull, of Ladbroke Grove, set up Attitude is Everything 13 years ago to challenge the music industry to improve access for deaf and disabled customers.
The organisation has since overseen more than 70 venues and festivals signing up to a Charter of Best Practice, thousands trained in disability equality and a huge increase in the number of people with disabilities accessing live music events.
She has been recognised for services to music, the arts and disabled people.
Ms Bull said: “15 years ago it was the same two or three people on the viewing platform, nowadays you need to be at the main stage platform by 2pm to reserve a space. The demand is there; if you build it, they will come.”
Melvin Benn, managing director of Festival Republic, and Bradley Hemmings, artistic director of Greenwich and Docklands Festivals and co-artistic director for the Paralympic Games opening ceremony, were just two of many influential colleagues who supported the nomination.
Mr Hemmings said: “Suzanne has always been both a visionary and a highly practical problem solver in creating the highest possible standards of access.”
Mr Benn added: “Suzanne has guided our staff, built strong personal relationships and is without question an expert in her field, offering accessible advice and feedback to the music industry and disabled customers alike.”
