North West learning disability charity, Pure Innovations, has announced the return of its much-loved Access Festival for 2026, with this year’s event set to be the biggest celebration yet.
Taking place this July in Stockport, the annual festival is designed specifically for adults with learning disabilities and autism, creating an inclusive space where people can enjoy live music, socialise and celebrate in a way that works for them.
Now entering its sixth year, Access Festival has grown from a small gathering of around 30 people into a vibrant event welcoming more than 300 attendees and even more are expected to attend in 2026. The festival has become a highlight of the year for many people supported by Pure Innovations, offering not only entertainment, but also connection, confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
Each year, Stockport Guildhall is transformed into a fully accessible and welcoming festival space, complete with live music, DJs, dancing, karaoke, food and activities, all carefully shaped around the needs of attendees.
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Creating meaningful experiences for people with a learning disability
The event reflects Pure Innovations’ wider mission to ensure people with learning disabilities and autism are not excluded from everyday experiences and opportunities that many others take for granted.
Emily, who founded Access Festival and has led its growth over the past six years, said:
“After going to a festival myself a few years ago, I realised it wasn’t just about the music. It was the excitement beforehand, choosing what to wear, making plans with friends and then sharing memories afterwards. It made me think about how many of the people we support had never had those experiences.
“Access Festival is about creating a space where everyone feels comfortable, included and able to enjoy themselves. For many of the people who attend, this is the highlight of their year. It’s a chance to connect with others, experience live music and simply have fun in an environment designed with them in mind.
“Seeing how much the festival has grown — and what it means to people — has been incredible. This year is set to be our biggest event yet.”
Beyond the celebration itself, Access Festival also highlights the ongoing barriers many disabled people still face when accessing social and cultural events. Through initiatives like this, Pure Innovations continues to champion inclusion by creating meaningful opportunities for people to participate fully in their communities.”
For many attendees and families, the festival represents something much bigger than a single event, it is a rare opportunity to experience the excitement, independence and shared joy that accessible spaces can make possible.
You can find out more about Pure Innovations by visiting its website and following the charity on Facebook and Instagram.