Diabetics denied festival snacks: "My food is my medication"

People with type 1 diabetes face challenges accessing venues, with some reporting being denied entry even with essential snacks and medication. Musician Anna Price shared her experience of being refused entry to festivals with food, emphasizing that for diabetics, food is a form of medication. She noted the lack of understanding can make simple outings difficult.

This issue highlights a broader lack of awareness in nightlife spaces regarding diabetes management. Experts state that ordering drinks can also be problematic, with the risk of receiving sugary versions instead of diet options. The need to carry essential items like insulin and snacks has led to refusal of entry or intrusive security checks for some.

Recent efforts are being made to improve venue accessibility. A drum and bass event in Bristol, co-hosted by Type One Community, successfully implemented measures such as briefing security staff on diabetic needs and offering free glucose shots. This initiative aimed to ensure attendees could enjoy themselves safely, prompting venue management to reassess their accessibility policies for future events.