A blind man from Croydon has prompted the British Museum to introduce an audio-described tour of the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition after raising concerns about accessibility for blind and partially sighted visitors. Dr Yusuf Ali Osman, who has no sight in either eye, said the museum had breached the Equality Act by not initially offering an audio-described tour of the landmark exhibition.
The museum announced on Wednesday that an in-person audio-described tour will now be held during the exhibition's run and said it is also exploring adding an audio-described tour to the exhibition's app. The Bayeux Tapestry, a 70-metre embroidery depicting events leading up to the Norman Conquest of 1066, is on loan from France and will remain on display at the British Museum until July 11, 2027.
Complaint and Initial Response
Dr Osman contacted the museum through solicitors at Leigh Day to ask whether audio-described tours would be available. According to the law firm, the museum said self-guided visits would be prioritised over tours and events. The museum cited restrictions on the amount of light exposure permitted for the tapestry, which limits visitor numbers.
Despite the museum's announcement, Dr Osman is seeking damages, a declaration that he was discriminated against, and an order requiring the museum to change its policies and provide disability awareness training for relevant staff.
Legal Action and Statements
Dr Osman said: "I hope that this legal action will help make sure that blind and partially sighted people are properly considered when major exhibitions are planned, so that we can enjoy and engage with our national cultural institutions on a more equal footing."
His solicitor, Kate Egerton, said the Equality Act requires service providers to anticipate the needs of disabled people and take reasonable steps to avoid placing them at a substantial disadvantage. She added: "Our client is asking for the same opportunity as sighted visitors to experience this exhibition."
Museum's Accessibility Measures
A British Museum spokesperson said the institution was committed to making the exhibition as accessible as possible and had worked with specialist access consultants. Existing measures include a sensory map to help visitors prepare for their visit, alongside dedicated tours that will now include an in-person audio-described session. The museum is also considering a separate audio-described guide within its exhibition app.
