Belfast event venues achieve Autism NI Impact Award re-accreditation
ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall have achieved Autism NI’s Impact Award, demonstrating their commitment to inclusion for autistic and neurodivergent customers and employees
The teams at the three Belfast venues have put in place a tailored action plan of adjustments across the organisation, aimed at building inclusive spaces which deliver autism-friendly customer service, supporting increased participation.
The Impact Award process also affords teams the opportunity to undertake a tailored programme of training and support from Autism NI, improving staff’s understanding of autism and how to support autistic customers and colleagues.
This is a reaccreditation and builds on the Belfast venues’ first award four years ago.
Autism NI’s Training and Development Officer, Aishling Steen said,
“We are delighted that ICC Belfast and its sister venues Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall have achieved a reaccreditation of the Autism Impact Award. This shows a sustained commitment to accessibility and inclusion for autistic and neurodivergent people.
“Through delivery of staff training and the continued development of their accessibility action plan, the whole organisation has implemented a range of practical changes aimed at promoting inclusion for autistic customers, clients and employees.
“This reaccreditation recognises the ongoing work between Autism NI and ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall over the last four years. Achieving the Autism Impact Award in the first place requires focus and effort; building on this over time to achieve reaccreditation demonstrates real dedication to inclusion.
"We look forward to continuing this work in the years to come.”
Charlie McCloskey, Director of Operations at ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall said,
“We are proud to be at the heart of the community, with the community at our heart. That comes with a commitment to continuously enhance and adapt our venues, ensuring they are inclusive and accessible for every one of our audience members, conference delegates, concertgoers, guest speakers, musicians, as well as our own team and suppliers.
It’s really important to us that autistic and neurodivergent patrons feel at home in our spaces. We work hard to ensure our events are warm and welcoming for everyone and we want every individual to see their place here, so they can participate in and enjoy big event experiences to the full.
“By undertaking Autism NI training, our team members are equipped and confident in their abilities to support autistic customers, so that we can provide a higher level of customer service, continue to drive change forward and improve accessibility across our venues.”
One of the key developments implemented since the venues’ first accreditation has been the introduction of autism-friendly quiet pods, a sensory cool-down area, and the programming of a range of quieter productions including the annual community family pantomime. This is aimed at enabling families with autistic children to enjoy quality time together, where otherwise they may miss out.
Autism NI work alongside autistic people and their families, and build partnerships that champion better understanding, accessibility, and services for our autism community. The Impact Award is available for a range of organisations, to build their inclusive approach for clients, customers and employees.
For further information, visit here or call 028 90 401729.
