The Cambridge Students’ Union (SU) Access-a-Ball scheme experienced a delayed launch this year, leading to criticism from May Ball committees over its organisation.

Launched in 2020, the Access-a-Ball scheme aims to support and highlight accessibility requirements at May Balls and other student-run events. Participating committees appoint an accessibility officer, complete training, and work with the SU throughout the year to implement inclusive practices, in exchange for accreditation.

However, the SU’s implementation of the scheme this year has been criticised. Orlane Vanmarcke, chair of the May Ball Presidents’ Committee (MBPC) 2024-25, told Varsity: “The scheme didn’t get launched until February 2025 – by that point, most balls have already started to set major contractors and layout plans in stone, which adds an extra hurdle, especially to balls who have signed up before.”

Although Vanmarcke acknowledged that “the scheme itself is doing so much good in the May Ball world,” increasing “awareness and consideration for access needs,” she said the scheme needs “better organisational structure”.

“The participants of the scheme during the 2023-24 ball season never received their certificates or accreditation. I followed up on this but it seems the evidence and work completed by the balls were never verified, which is a shame,” Vanmarcke added.

Vanmarcke’s concerns were echoed by the president of the Corpus Christi May Ball, Omar Burhanuddin, who told Varsity: “The Corpus May Ball Committee has been disappointed with the poor coordination of the Access-a-Ball scheme by the SU this year. May Balls begin their planning from early Michaelmas, and in some cases (including us) even earlier.”

“With the scheme only rolled out in late Lent, not to mention a last-minute training session cancellation, many committees will have been left hanging. The Student Union must up its game in coordinating with student societies and organisations,” Burhanuddin continued.

Despite organisational setbacks, committees claim they continue to prioritise accessibility. Burhanuddin added that, “regardless of SU neglect, [we are] dedicated to making our event as accessible as possible,” highlighting a bursary ticket scheme, majority step-free access, quiet rooms, and carer tickets among their planned provisions.

This comes months after the University was ranked as the worst UK university in supporting disabled students. A Varsity investigation in 2023 further detailed the inaccessibility of facilities labelled “accessible” by colleges.

Several May Balls have already been cancelled this year. Last month, Robinson’s committee announced they were replacing their May Ball with a “mega bop,” seeking to move to a “more accessible and inclusive event”. Last week, Emmanuel cancelled its June Event due to “low ticket sales”.

The Cambridge Students’ Union was contacted for comment.

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