21 May 2026
"As a civic university, we're committed to improving the lives of everyone who lives, works, and studies here"
"Access for All" is giving hundreds of Sunderland residents the chance to experience Radio 1's Big Weekend. This is an opportunity many would otherwise never have the chance to enjoy.
The programme is supported by regional sponsors, including the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, University of Sunderland, Sunderland College, Gentoo and Big Green Coach. These organisations have sponsored free festival tickets, travel and food support for local people facing financial or social barriers. The aim is simple: to make one of the UK's biggest music events accessible to everyone.
Children and young people with care experience and those from low-income households are among those who will benefit from the scheme. Many of these residents would not usually have access to experiences like this, and the opportunity to attend such a major event will have a meaningful impact on their wellbeing and confidence. By removing the cost of tickets, transport and meals, the programme ensures that every participant can enjoy the festival confidently and comfortably.
Being part of something as exciting as Radio 1's Big Weekend gives them the chance to enjoy live music, share in a big community moment and feel included in something their peers will be talking about. It's not just about the event itself, but the confidence, joy and lasting memories that come from being able to take part in something so special.
Alongside the festival experience, the programme creates a wider community legacy. By building confidence, reducing isolation, strengthening local networks and inspiring new interests in music, arts and creative careers.
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: "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. 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."
Kath MacLeod, Director of External Relations at the University of Sunderland, added: "The University of Sunderland is proud to support Access for All, to enable as many people as possible to enjoy the Radio One Big Weekend.
"As a civic university, we're committed to improving the lives of everyone who lives, works, and studies here.
"This weekend will be an incredible opportunity for our community to get together and celebrate everything that's great about our city, while enjoying world-class talent right here in Sunderland."
This weekend, residents are being invited to celebrate music, culture and community as part of Sunderland City Council's One Big Summer: a summer long programme of music and cultural events across the city.
This will start with a three-day celebration on Keel Square and High Street West marking the arrival of BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend.
From Friday 22 to Sunday 24 May, Keel Square will host a packed programme of free entertainment, performances, activities and city‑wide moments designed to bring residents together and showcase the best of Sunderland.
The full schedule for this free launch weekend is available here(opens in new tab).