Glasgow Science Centre set to introduce Autism Friendly Hours

GLASGOW Science Centre is launching monthly events where they will lower the volume of exhibits and soften the lights for Autism Friendly Hours.

Starting on March 18, the events will see the attraction opening on a Sunday morning from 9am and providing all of the usual fun but with less hustle and bustle.

Sally Pritchard, Community Learning Coordinator at Glasgow Science Centre, said: “Everyone should be able to experience all Glasgow Science Centre has to offer and we are working hard to remove barriers to participation and encourage inclusion from all areas of society.

“We have engaged with Autism Network Scotland to make our staff more autism aware and help us understand what changes we can make to create an autism friendly visitor experience.”

Autism Friendly Hours is part of Glasgow Science Centre’s Community Learning programme, which supports groups and individuals to engage in learning and develop a love of science.

The Science Centre can be an overwhelming sensory experience for people with autism due to the interactive exhibits, lights and noise.

As well as the new events, calm corners and quiet rooms with weighted blankets and ear defenders will be available for visitors to use.

Custom maps of the building have also been created that highlight potential noisy areas and sensory experiences.

The Science Centre is the latest place to introduce measures to make it an easier visit for those who are autistic.

Glasgow is aiming to have the first autism-friendly city centre in the UK, with the city council working in partnership with businesses, Autism Network Scotland and other organisations.

Lighting and volume levels will resume to regular levels from 11am. Entry for an adult or a child with autism is £9, which includes one accompanying adult free. For more information visit www.glasgowsciencecentre.org