Bradford Literature Festival Launches Community Access Code Applications

Free tickets offered to local groups for 2026 festival

The Bradford Literature Festival has opened applications for its Community Access Code scheme, which provides free tickets to local community groups. This initiative aims to make the festival accessible to a wider audience by removing financial barriers to attendance.

Community Access Code scheme details

Since its launch in 2014, the Community Access Code scheme has been part of the festival’s Ethical Ticketing Policy. It allows grassroots organisations, community networks, cultural and faith groups, learning groups, and support services across Bradford, Yorkshire, and the North of England to access free tickets to festival events.

In 2025, the scheme was used by 120 community groups. These groups have varied in size from small book clubs with fewer than 10 members to neighbourhood networks with over 150 people. Many groups return annually and consider the scheme their main way to participate in the festival.

Community feedback and festival leadership comments

Users of the Community Access Code scheme have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to attend events that might otherwise be inaccessible. One participant noted the importance of the festival’s approach to engaging community groups and making cultural events available to a broader audience.

Syima Aslam, CEO and Artistic Director of the Bradford Literature Festival, said the scheme offers more than just free tickets. She emphasised that it is an open invitation to those who may have previously felt excluded from cultural experiences, ensuring that literature’s transformative power is available to the entire community.

How to apply

• Community groups interested in the scheme can apply online.
• Applications are submitted through the festival’s website at www.bradfordlitfest.co.uk/concessions.
• Successful applicants will receive a code to book free tickets for the festival.
• The 2026 Bradford Literature Festival is scheduled to take place from 3 to 12 July.

For those interested in updates and the festival programme launch, signing up for email alerts is available via www.bradfordlitfest.co.uk.