Reading & Leeds 2024: Staying safe and looking out for each other
Ahead of Reading & Leeds 2024 kicking off this Friday (August 23), organisers have spoken to NME about the festival’s approach to safeguarding, accessibility and fans looking after one another.
Returning to Bramham Park in Leeds and Richfield Avenue in Reading, R&L this year will see headline sets from Liam Gallagher, Lana Del Rey, Fred Again.., Blink-182, Catfish & The Bottlemen and Gerry Cinammon, alongside performances from the likes of Fontaines D.C., RAYE, Kneecap, Pendulum, Nia Archives, Neck Deep and many more.
Now, with music fans planning their timetables for what bands to see and what to pack and take with them, Leeds Festival’s Licensing Coordinator Hannah Corrigan has shared her tips and memories of R&L and how to make the most of the safeguarding on offer.
NME: Hello Hannah. What do you remember about your first Reading & Leeds and how you felt? Were you nervous?
Hannah Corrigan: “The first time I attended Leeds Festival was 2011, I was 16-years-old and really excited! I went with a group of friends from school and we all had a great time.”
What would you say to festival-goers nervous about going to Reading & Leeds on their own – both as a weekend and day ticket holder?
“Now that I work behind the scenes, I know the level of focus on keeping festival-goers safe and the facilities that we have on site to ensure this. I would say to both weekend and day ticket holders that you’re going to have a great time as it’s a welcoming crowd and all staff on site are here to help.”
What should fans think about when considering what campsite to stay in?
“We have options to suit everyone’s different preferences, whether you want a more relaxed time or to be in and amongst the action! This year we’ve introduced a new Quiet Camp, for those who want a bit more shut eye. There’s Eco Camp where everyone signs a pledge to leave no trace, or Camping Plus upgrades with showers, pamper area with blow dryers, straighteners etc. Plus an additional campsite for those going by themselves at Solo Camp. Or the classic picking your favourite spot with your mates.
“Look at the public map [Reading here, Leeds here] to see proximity of campsites to where you’re entering the site whether that’s from car parks, pick up and drop off, taxi’s and ubers or the shuttles and coaches.
“We have AIR Hubs in all the campsites which are staffed 24 hours for anyone that wants to have a chat or has any questions regarding way-finding or welfare facilities, or for anyone that needs assistance. We also have 24 hour welfare facilities in the campsites and village as well as 24 hour first aid facilities in the village.”
Say someone wants to get to the front for their favourite artist – what advice would you share about that? What’s the safest way to do it?
“It’s always fun being at the front for your favourite act so I would suggest coming early to get a good spot. Please do not rush to the front, make sure you stay hydrated and stay sun safe – bring a hat and remember to wear suncream. The security at the barrier are there to help you. Be kind to everyone around you as all festival-goers are there to have a good time.”
How safe would you say the festival is – during the music and afterwards?
“The event’s top priority is the safety of all on site. We have 24 hour medical and welfare facilities in the arena, village and campsites as well as our AIR hubs. We also have numerous charities and organisations on site including Safe Gigs for Women, Salvation Army, Samaritans, Egalitarians, The Survivor Trust, Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Festival Angels, Brook, Forward Leeds, Oxfam, Andy’s Man Club, People Matters, Age UK, SSafe.
“We also promote the Ask for Angela Campaign a phrase patrons can use to all staff if they need help. There is also 24 hour security within the arena, village and campgrounds, we are here to help.”
What is there to do when the music ends?
“There are multiple late night entertainment options in the campgrounds with LS23 and Picadilly Party (in Leeds only) running till late as well as the campsite DJ’s. This year the silent disco will be held at the new, huge Chevron stage which is really exciting!”
Should people be worried about crime at Reading & Leeds?
“The safety of our audience is our top priority. We have an extensive security and stewarding operation in place, along with CCTV, searches and other measures. We also work very closely with local police constabularies on this, who are present at both sites, on both crime prevention and investigations. Our staff are always here to help, and we encourage everyone to look out for each other. If you see something, no matter how small, please report it — we will take it seriously.”
Do you have any information on safety for women and girls?
Harassment has no place nor is accepted at Reading & Leeds Festival. We will not tolerate violence against women and girls and will treat any concerns with care. Our staff are here to help and are never too far away. If you see something, say something and intervene where it’s safe to do so. If you ever feel uncomfortable you can go to any bar or security personnel and Ask for Angela and they will provide discreet help to get out of a situation. Remember, consent is key.
“Keep an eye out for our #LookOutForEachother about consent and Brook the sexual health and wellbeing charity who distribute condoms on-site and encourage conversations about the importance of consent and safe sex Visit the safety pages on our websites for specific information on locations of facilities and organisations on hand to help: Reading Safety and Leeds Safety.”
What should people do if they feel anxious in crowds?
“We have a sensory space located in the village for anyone that needs to have a break from the event as well a check in a chill tent where you can relax and take a moment. We also have welfare facilities in the arena, village and campsites as well as our AIR Hubs in the campgrounds.”
Do you have any tips on what to pack?
“Very importantly; bring a good quality tent (with a rating above HH1500 to stay warm and dry) and take it home with you. Make sure to pack for all weather, it can be unpredictable and you don’t want to be caught without a rain coat! Bring valid ID (Reading & Leeds operates Challenge 25 policy). Stay sun safe, bring a hat and suncream for the day and warm clothing for the night. Bring a refillable water bottle, we have water points to fill up in throughout the site. Do not bring disposable vapes, they are banned and will be confiscated.”
What advice would you give on travelling to and from the festival safely?
“We strongly recommend those who are traveling to Reading Festival use public transport. There are coaches running from multiple cities to both sites through Big Green Coach as well shuttle buses running from Leeds city centre and Reading Train Station. Info on these is available on the website.
“If travelling by car it’s always a great option to car pool! Follow the traffic signs approaching to the event as your sat nav may take you in a wrong direction. There is a dedicated pick up and drop off area and taxi/Uber/pre-booked vehicles area at the event so plan to meet in this location when leaving and make sure you’re getting into the right vehicles. For more information about parking visit here.”
How accessible is Reading & Leeds?
“Reading & Leeds Festival is accessible for all! We have accessible facilities on site including raised viewing platforms, accessible toilets & shower facilities, accessible shuttles and an accessible campsite and parking areas.
“We have a dedicated accessibility team who accessible patrons can contact to pre-register access to the facilities and their requirements, this can be found on the Festival website. There is also a sensory space in the village for those who need a break from the hustle and bustle of the festival.”
Reading & Leeds will return for the August Bank Holiday weekend. Tickets are on sale now here for Reading and here for Leeds.
Check out the full line-up with stage times here and the latest weather forecast here.
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