Autistic Pride Day is a global celebration that highlights the strengths, achievements, and unique perspectives of people on the autism spectrum. According to the National Autistic Society, more than one in 100 people are autistic and there are at least 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK. 

Autistic Pride Day on 18th June is also about visibility, promoting acceptance over awareness. It's a valuable opportunity to reflect on the barriers autistic people may face — and to recognise the practical steps we can take to create more inclusive and supportive environments for everyone. On our Consultancy blog, our Ambassador Izzy has shared insights into her experience and valuable advice for visitor attractions looking to better support neurodivergent visitors. 

At AccessAble, we understand that accessibility is not only about physical features. If you are autistic, feeling safe and confident in a new place can depend on having the right information in advance. This might include details about lighting, noise levels, or whether there is somewhere quiet to go if things become overwhelming. 

Our Detailed Access Guides are designed to reduce uncertainty and give you the confidence to explore places on your own terms. 

 

Why Predictability Matters 

If you have ever felt anxious about going somewhere new, you are not alone. In our 2024 Accessibility and You survey, 73 per cent of respondents said they feel anxious before visiting unfamiliar places. 

Research shows that autistic people are up to four times more likely to experience anxiety than non-autistic people. This is often related to sensory sensitivities, social situations, unexpected changes or difficulties in regulating emotions. 

Whether it is a trip to the cinema, a hospital appointment or a visit to a shopping centre, uncertainty can turn everyday activities into stressful experiences. We want to help make things easier. 

 

What You Will Find in Our Guides 

We understand that everyone’s needs are unique and that neurodiversity exists on a broad spectrum — what works well for one neurodivergent person may not work for another.

That’s why our Guides offer a wide range of detailed, practical information, empowering you to decide whether a space is right for you.

Sensory Environment Information 

We describe the sensory environment, including lighting, background noise and, where possible, how busy the venue might get. We also highlight whether there are quieter times of day or sensory-friendly sessions. 

Visual Aids 

Our Guides include photographs of parking, entrances, routes, reception areas and other key locations. This allows you to see what to expect before you arrive.

As part of our Detailed Access Guides, we use Accessibility Symbols. These symbols have been designed in consultation with disabled people and represent important information that we’ve been told would be good to find out at a glance in order to help assess whether a venue is accessible for you. You can use these to narrow your search by filtering your results using the Accessibility Symbols, or, if you have an account, you can save your preferences for future use.

We also let you know if the venue has maps or clear signposting. 

Step-by-Step Navigation 

We guide you through the venue from the point of arrival. This includes information about how to enter, what the layout is like inside, and what facilities are available, such as toilets, dining spaces and seating areas. 

Quiet Rooms and Sensory-Friendly Spaces 

If the venue offers a quiet room or a low-stimulation space, we include details about where it is and what it offers. More venues are beginning to offer sensory kits or sensory bags that you can borrow during your visit. These may include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys or social stories to help you feel more comfortable. 

Relaxed Performances and Screenings 

If a cinema or theatre offers relaxed screenings or performances with softer lighting, quieter sound and a more flexible atmosphere, we include that information too. 

Sunflower Lanyard Scheme 

We let you know if the venue recognises the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme, which can help staff understand that you may need additional support. 

Staff Awareness 

Where the information is available, we include whether staff have received Disability Equality training. This can help you know what kind of support and understanding you might receive during your visit. 

 

Making Informed Choices 

Autistic Pride Day is an important reminder that inclusion is about feeling welcomed, respected and understood. 

We believe that you should be able to choose where you go and how you engage with the world, without facing unnecessary stress or uncertainty. You should be able to explore, study, work, travel and socialise in ways that suit you. Our Guides provide the information that supports your independence and helps you feel in control. 

Visit www.AccessAble.co.uk to discover thousands of venues with detailed access information, so you can decide what works best for you.