Hundreds of people given free Big Weekend tickets as part of new programme

As part of a programme called Access for All, people who may not otherwise have been able to afford Big Weekend have been given tickets for free.

Children and young people in care and those from low-income households are among those who will benefit from the scheme, which also includes travel passes and food and drink vouchers at the event, which is bringing the party to Herrington Country Park from May 22-24.

The programme is aimed at making sure everyone can enjoy big cultural events, regardless of financial barriers.

The programme is supported by regional sponsors including the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, University of Sunderland, Sunderland College, Gentoo and Big Green Coach.

Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy and Place at Sunderland City Council said: “This programme is about opening doors and providing new opportunities. For many people in our communities, a major festival feels completely out of reach, but Access for All changes that.

“It gives residents a chance to be part of something joyful, exciting and unforgettable, and it shows what can happen when local partners come together with a shared purpose.”

North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness added: “Everyone deserves the chance to be part of big cultural moments that shape our region, not just those who can easily afford it.

“That's why I'm investing to bring more events into working class communities, and why it is important that, with the help of Access for All, tickets to Big Weekend are finding their way to those who are too often left out."

Simon Marshall, Director of Children’s Services at Sunderland City Council, said many of the children who’ve received the tickets face challenges that limit their access to big events.

“For the children and young people we support, opportunities like this can be genuinely life‑changing. Many have faced challenges that limit their access to positive, shared experiences, so being welcomed into something as exciting and high‑profile as Radio 1’s Big Weekend sends a powerful message of inclusion and belonging,” he said.

“It gives them the chance to make memories, build confidence and feel part of their city in a way that can have a lasting impact.

“The package provides free festival tickets for residents facing social or economic barriers, along with sponsored travel such as shuttle services, public transport passes and accessible options to help people get to the event with confidence.

“Attendees will also receive meal and drinks vouchers so they can enjoy the day without worrying about additional costs and without feeling different to anyone else there.”