Accessibility at LIFF
This page includes information about accessibility at venues, accessible screenings at Leeds Film, and how to request additional support and contact us with any queries.
We want everyone to be able to access and enjoy our venues and screenings at LIFF. For LIFF 2026, we’re offering more screenings with descriptive subtitles, audio description and BSL, alongside a simpler process for booking access and companion tickets and clearer information about how to contact us for assistance.
Leeds International Film Festival is a place for everyone. During the film festival, if you are feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or just in need of a quiet moment, please ask one of the LIFF 2026 volunteers or staff members who will be more than happy to help you.
ACCESSIBLE SCREENINGS
We’ll be screening films with a variety of access provisions during the festival. On film pages, there will be information above each screening listed for any access or additional screening information.
Descriptive subtitles (DS)
Screenings marked DS in this guide feature on-screen subtitles that include dialogue as well as important audio information such as sound effects, music cues and speaker identification. This supports Deaf and hard of hearing audiences by providing key audio information visually.
Audio description (AD)
Screenings marked AD include an additional soundtrack describing important visual information such as body language, facial expressions, movement, scenery and action. Audio description supports blind and partially sighted audiences to follow visual elements that are important to a film’s story.
AD is listened to through a dedicated headset rather than through the cinema’s main speakers. You can book an AD headset as part of the ticket booking process and collect it at the venue.
Autism-Friendly screenings (AF)
Autism-Friendly screenings (AF) are adapted to create a more welcoming and accessible cinema environment for autistic and neurodivergent audiences of all ages. They are open to adults, children and families, and may also benefit anyone who finds a traditional cinema environment overwhelming or stressful.
Pay-what-you-can and free screenings
We have a series of screenings at our partner community venues, Leeds Central Library and Mill Hill Chapel. Tickets at these venues are ￡0, ￡3 or ￡5, allowing you to choose the amount you can afford.
No evidence or proof is required to choose a free ticket.
British Sign Language
For some Descriptive Subtitles (DS) screenings, a BSL interpreter will live-translate introductions and Q&As into British Sign Language.
For screenings with an introduction or Q&A, the interpreter may also be available at the ticket desk before the screening to assist customers.
Subtitled screenings
Films in languages other than English will have English subtitles for dialogue throughout, unless otherwise stated.
Community and other group bookings
We welcome community groups and charities and can offer support with free or discounted tickets to LIFF screenings for groups who may otherwise face barriers to attending. This can include support with travel.
BOOKING TICKETS
You can book LIFF tickets online, over the phone or in person.
Essential Companions & CEA Cards
We offer free entry for essential companions accompanying a customer who requires support to attend. Customers will need to register with the Leeds Ticket Hub Access Scheme to confirm eligibility, for example with a CEA Card, Access Card, PIP or DLA. Once registration has been confirmed by the Leeds Ticket Hub team, companion tickets can be booked online, over the phone or in person at LIFF venues or Leeds Ticket Hub.
Wheelchair spaces
Wheelchair spaces are available to book at all our venues except Cottage Road Cinema. These are indicated by the wheelchair symbol on the seat map when booking.
Induction Loops
Induction hearing loop systems are available at Leeds Ticket Hub and at our ticket desks at Vue, Everyman and Hyde Park Picture House.
Venue Access & Parking
The link below is a list of venues for LIFF 2026. For detailed accessibility information, including wheelchair and step-free access, accessible toilets, hearing loops and assistance dogs please click on each venue.
Wherever possible, we prioritize the use of accessible venues and ensure that films shown in non-accessible venues are also available in accessible locations. However, for certain one-off or partnership events held in venues without full accessibility, this may not always be feasible.
We are actively collaborating with these venues to explore ways to enhance accessibility for future editions of the festival.
View LIFF Venues
Blue Badge Parking
If you require Blue Badge parking, please click on the following link for an Access Map of Leeds City Centre which highlights parking locations and access/exit routes.
Contact & Additional Support
We want to ensure you have the best experience possible when attending Leeds International Film Festival.
If you have any specific access requirements or would like to discuss how we can support your visit, please email The LIFF Team at leeds.film@leeds.gov.uk and use "Access" in the subject line.
You can also contact Leeds Ticket Hub by phone on 0113 376 0318 – lines are open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.