Deeside Business Secures Flagship National Contract for Arts Accessibility
A specialist member support business from Deeside has secured a flagship national contract to deliver services for a groundbreaking arts access scheme designed for disabled people. The win marks the official launch of The People Connective, which has been appointed by Arts Council England to operate the accessible helpdesk for its pioneering All In programme.
New Brand Focuses on Inclusive Member Support
Based in Sandycroft, Deeside, the firm operates as part of The Card Network, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and entering a significant growth phase following recent changes in ownership. The 20-strong team is supported by a four-person leadership group covering finance, commercial, technical, and marketing functions.
While The Card Network has built recognition as a provider of custom printed cards across various applications and technologies, the business also manages substantial fulfilment and membership services. This includes operating large national identification schemes and delivering comprehensive end-to-end experiences from initial member applications through to ongoing customer support.
The accessibility expertise that has been developed through years of operation now operates under The People Connective brand, which was established last year specifically to focus on inclusive, people-first member support services.
Leadership Expresses Pride in Appointment
Marketing Director Suzi Peake stated: "This is a hugely proud moment for our whole team. Accessibility has always been central to what we do and being trusted with a national programme like All In shows what's possible when inclusive design and real human support come together."
Sue Woodcock, Commercial Director of The Card Network, added: "We're delighted to be working with All In and Arts Council England to develop an accessible helpdesk solution from the outset. We bring many years of experience supporting D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people, including through the Hynt access scheme across Wales, and we look forward to building on that experience."
Multi-Channel Support for Disabled Members
Arts Council England has confirmed that the new helpdesk will offer friendly, person-centred support through multiple channels including:
- Telephone assistance
- Email correspondence
- Live chat functionality
- Virtual appointments
- Postal communication
This approach allows members to choose the communication method that works best for their individual needs and preferences.
Addressing Barriers to Access
Kelly Parish, Senior Manager for Diversity at Arts Council England, explained: "We know that for many disabled people, the biggest barriers can appear at the very first point of contact. That's why we want to give disabled members choice in how they get in touch. By appointing People Connective, they will be met with understanding, flexibility and a real person at the other end of support. This partnership reflects our commitment to putting disabled people at the heart of All In."
About the All In Programme
All In represents a new access scheme positioned to transform accessibility across the United Kingdom and Ireland. The project is currently progressing through a phased rollout for creative and cultural organizations and is scheduled to begin welcoming disabled members later in 2026.
Alongside this new partnership, The Card Network continues to support universities, hospitality brands, and national organizations, with particular growth noted in electric vehicle charging cards and additional fulfilment services.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
The Arts Council England partnership is anticipated to drive further recruitment in the Flintshire area, creating new employment opportunities and providing a boost to the local economy during this milestone anniversary year for The Card Network. The business processes thousands of applications weekly for longstanding national partnerships, demonstrating its capacity for handling significant volume while maintaining quality service delivery.
