Guidelines for events

Entertainment venues can be extremely busy environments, with lots going on in terms of crowds, noises, smells, lighting and textures. People with Autism often struggle with sensory integration, this means they can be, at a given time, over or under sensitive to their sensory surroundings. Some may have particular noises, smells, visuals, textures or tastes which they cannot bear or that they really like e.g a person may find bright or flashing lights or loud music difficult to cope with.

Entertainment venues are highly social environments. Social skills are often an area which people with autism struggle with and this may pose challenges. A student may be more anxious in the social situation of having to make conversation or knowing how to interact with their group, particularly if they don’t know anyone well. They may seem very distant, aloof or blunt but in fact this could be due to their anxiety or could be how they communicate with other people typically e.g. very matter of fact in terms of conversation.

Another challenge that may arise for a student with autism is that they may be very keen to interact with others but may not know where to begin or what level of interaction best fits the situation. Not knowing how to approach other students and join in can lead to tension and isolation from other students at times.

When things are not very clear or an unexpected situation arises, an autistic person can become anxious. Like everyone, the more anxious a person is, the more challenging it is for them to enjoy themselves. That is why it is crucial that clear communication and reasonable adaptations are provided to a student to reduce anxiety and allow them to have fun.

People with Autism may find it difficult to concentrate on one thing for a lengthy period of time or to sit still. This can make going to seated events very challenging as it may be difficult for a person with autism to focus their attention, especially in an environment that is very busy and full of distractions. Having frequent breaks and opportunities to move around and refocus are very important for anyone who struggles to stay focused.

If you’ve taken steps to make your event autism-friendly, let people know. If autistic students see that they have been included in the organisation of an event, they are more likely to feel welcomed and to attend.

Given how challenging parts of a hectic event might be for someone who has sensory integration issues, why not create a calmer, chill out zone. This might be a small section cordoned off or a little room to one side away from all the noise and people. There’s no need to keep this area exclusively for people on the spectrum, anyone can enjoy a little down time on a hectic night out. This might seem like a small gesture but is a great support for individuals who do experience distress while they are out. It will allow a person to get away from a particular situation, cool down and collect themselves without having to go home.

If there isn’t space for a Quiet Area, can you create a sensory-friendly hour? If music could be turned down a little and lights could be dimmed a little, the environment will be much more comfortable for someone who is very sensitive to busy stimuli.

Provide clear, simple signage to direct people to where they need to be, and to let them know what’s happening. Even better, have a clearly identifiable person available to answer questions.

Let students know what to expect from an event. Provide information around the procedure for booking / getting a ticket, arriving at the venue, what to expect and any rules the venue may have. This is handy for all students who want to plan their day/night out. Provide photos of the venue so people know where they’re going. Keep your points short and clear. An info sheet is particularly handy for any student who may struggle with anxiety as it allows them to prepare.

Are all of your events centred around loud, busy environments like the pub? Do they always happen in the evening? Are there other options for quieter, daytime events? This will help you to include students on the spectrum, and also students who work evenings and students who don’t enjoy pubs.

You want to include students on the spectrum at your events, which is fabulous! The best way to be really inclusive is to be sure that you understand the experiences of people on the spectrum. Have you been to any training offered by the University? Keep an eye out for our regular workshops.