Access & Inclusion

QUESTIONS?

If you have any specific access needs or queries, we would be happy to help: email access@corkfilmfest.org or call +353 (0) 21 427 1711

Accessible Communication

As well as partnering with venues who share in our commitment to making film-going accessible and inclusive, we have also taken steps to improve our communication channels. This way, we can ensure that CIFF’s website and social media content are compatible with screen-readers as well as accommodating other visual and auditory needs for our audiences.

• Our Website has accessibility features that help improve the visual experience for those who need it.
• Our Social Media content includes alt-texts for the photos and text based content, helping users relying on screen-readers to better experience our content.
• The Access page on our website outlines all the accessibility information that audiences may require prior to attending the venues and events. We are also available at access@corkfilmfest.org if you have any queries beforehand.
• Our on-site Volunteers are trained to help audiences and attendees improve upon their CIFF experience.

Sensory Packs

A limited number of Sensory Packs will be available at selected events, it is recommended that you can book them by emailing us at access@corkfilmfest.org

These will contain Fidget Toys and Ear-defenders.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

CIFF is affiliated with the organisation Hidden Disabilities Sunflower which supports people with non- visible disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses.

The sunflower lanyard, bracelet, or badge signals that the wearer may need extra help, time, or understanding. Our trained volunteers, identifiable by their sunflower lanyards, are always happy to assist.

Accessible Programme

We are committed to making films accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing audiences.

Selected screenings feature:

• Closed Captions (CC): Available via personal captioning devices.
• The following events will have Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpretation: A Quiet Love and Doc Day.
• All non-English films are presented with English subtitles.

Look for the symbols above in the programme and online listings.

AUDIO DESCRIPTION

For blind and visually impaired audiences, the Triskel offers a hearing loop system for all cinema screenings. This is not available at the Arc Cinema or The Everyman.

RELAXED SCREENINGS

Relaxed screenings create a more informal environment for neurodivergent audiences, families, or anyone who may benefit from a less restrictive cinema experience.

Adjustments include softer sound, partially raised house lights, and a relaxed approach to movement and noise in the auditorium. Check out our full programme for our Relaxed Screenings as part of our Family & Young People strand.

Relaxed Screenings at CIFF (Family & Young People)

CIFF strives to be a welcoming and comfortable environment for all of its patrons. Below is additional access information for families who might be attending with a young person with autism or sensory sensitivities can expect at each of our Family screenings at the Festival.

Family Events at The Everyman

• TVs/music in the entrance will be turned off before and after the screening
• Lights remain on at a low level in the theatre during the performance
• Guests are free to talk and leave their seats during the performance
• Where possible, dryers in the toilets will be manually lowered to reduce noise – please follow signage

Family Events at the ARC Cinema

During sensory-friendly screenings, the ARC makes a variety of adjustments to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities. This includes:

• Reducing the volume of the film
• Dimming the lights
• Eliminating sudden or startling sounds
• Guests are free to move around, vocalise, or take breaks as needed, creating a relaxed and accepting atmosphere

Family Events at The Triskel

• House lights will remain during the performance so the auditorium will be illuminated
• Guests are free to talk and leave their seats during the performance
• Hand dryers in the toilets will be switched off and paper towels provided
• The seating arrangement in Triskel is different from a regular cinema, as instead of individual seats, it has church pews / benches

OTHER INFORMATION

• We recommend that families book their tickets online in advance to the screening to avoid queueing.

At the venue:

• Guests can book their tickets online in advance, and download them to their phones. Staff will simply have to scan the tickets from the guests’ phone.
• CIFF staff trained to be welcoming, inviting and accommodating to families’ needs
• Clear signage and clearly identifiable CIFF volunteers and staff
• The TVs in the entrance of the cinema and music will be turned off before and after the screening

This activity will form the start of a long-term strategy to enhance and improve CIFF’s cinema offering to young audiences through its programming and as part of its wider policy of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Safe to Create

Cork International Film Festival is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for both our audiences and our team. As part of this commitment, we have undertaken Safe to Create training to ensure the best practices in safeguarding and wellbeing across all our festival activities.