Help & Advice Useful Services Autism Friendly Environments Cinemas The autism friendly adjustments that cinemas make are designed to make them more inclusive and accessible for people with sensory sensitivities, and others who can benefit from this environment. The UK Cinema Association provides a card for a small fee enabling carers to get free entry to cinemas when accompanying someone with a disability or additional need. To find out more click here. Adjustments may include: a relaxed environment where people understand the needs of children and families with autism lights left on low sound turned down no trailers or advertisements (unless they are embedded in the film) staff trained in autism awareness disabled access chill out zone, where available freedom to move around and sit where you like bring your own food and drink Participating Cinemas Cineworld Showcase Odeon Vue Picturehouse Everyman Firstsite Empire Find an autism friendly screening near me Theatres Autism-friendly performances can be a fantastic way for people on the autism spectrum to enjoy a live theatre show as they offer a supportive and relaxed environment throughout the theatre. Patrons are free to move around and to make noise during these performances and adjustments will have been made to sound levels, lighting and loud sound effects. The theatre staff and cast will have received some training so they have some understanding of autism and often visual stories are available beforehand. Participating Theatres Norwich Theatre Royal Mercury Theatre, Colchester Harlow Playhouse New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Other Autism-friendly Venues Colchester Castle Colchester Castle are offering Autism and Dementia-friendly visiting times on the first Sunday of every month. Calm At The Castle sessions are intended to provide a more relaxed experience of the museum, with the addition of a sensory space where people can take a break. Their website contains a filmed walk through of the castle and useful information to familiarise yourself with their facilities before arrival. Click here to visit website. Christchurch Mansion Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich provides Autism and Dementia-friendly visiting times on the last Sunday of the month and are intended to provide a more relaxed experience of the museum. They have a filmed walk through of the museum and lots of useful information on their website. Click here to visit website. To The Moon and Back A local sensory needs toy shop in Barleylands Farm, Billericay. The shop is completely ASD friendly and you can also buy their sensory toys online via their website. Click here to visit website. Manage Cookie Preferences