Several important updates have recently been announced that may affect event organisers, venues, and suppliers across the UK.
An industry survey has been launched to explore support for creating a Primary Authority scheme linked to the Purple Guide. The aim is to create a more consistent approach to how outdoor event guidance is interpreted across local authorities.
If introduced, this would be the first time a Primary Authority scheme has been applied to guidance rather than legislation. The proposal is currently planned to operate in England with support from Brighton & Hove Council, with hopes to expand further in the future. The scheme would only be available to Purple Guide subscribers.
Says Ian Baird from Brighton & Hove Council: “We believe a Primary Authority scheme would improve national conversations to encourage consistency and, thereby, help organisers operating across multiple local authorities. It will also help local authorities benchmark to ‘reasonable’ requests, with an arbitration process. The scheme would also help the publishers of the Purple Guide to keep its guidance up-to-date and relevant as practices across the industry evolve.”
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has opened a consultation on updated guidance for registering medical services at events. The proposed changes could affect medical providers and event organisers involved in treatment services on-site.
The consultation closes on Friday 19 June at 5pm.
The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) has raised the UK National Threat Level from SUBSTANTIAL to SEVERE, meaning an attack is considered highly likely. Event organisers are advised to review their security plans, emergency procedures, and crowd safety measures.
More guidance is available through ProtectUk.
Attitude is Everything has launched a national survey to better understand the experiences of deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent people within the live events industry. The findings will help shape a new Live Events Access Charter aimed at improving accessibility across venues and festivals. These updates highlight the ongoing focus on safety, consistency, and accessibility within the events industry.
At ESITS, we continue to monitor industry developments to help keep organisers informed and prepared.
