Football is for everyone.
But for neurodiverse fans, matchdays can be overwhelming. From the cheering crowds to the bright lights, the sensory overload can turn an exciting experience into an anxiety-inducing one.
That’s why more and more football clubs are introducing sensory rooms – dedicated spaces designed to offer a comfortable, calming environment for individuals with sensory needs. These rooms allow neurodiverse fans to experience live football, giving them the opportunity to enjoy the magic of a matchday in a controlled environment.
Bristol City is the latest club to announce their new sensory room at Ashton Gate Stadium – a room that will be a safe-haven for neurodiverse fans. To further amplify Bristol City’s commitment to be as inclusive as possible, access to the sensory room will be available during both men’s and women’s games.
To find out how you can utilise the sensory room, visit Bristol City’s website.
Bristol City are not the only club striving to make a difference. Sunderland AFC paved the way in the 2015/16 season with the Nathan Shippey Sensory Room at the Stadium of Light, inspired by a young fan with autism who found being in the stands too overwhelming. Since then, Sunderland AFC have supported clubs like Bristol City to establish their sensory rooms, offering advice and guidance based on their learnings. Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are also among the clubs who have introduced sensory rooms, each of them recognising the need to create a safe space for all fans.
These initiatives aren’t just nice gestures, they’re essential steps towards bridging the gap in making football a truly inclusive space. By offering sensory rooms, football clubs are demonstrating their commitment to accessibility and inclusivity for all fans, allowing every fan to experience the matchday atmosphere we all know and love, regardless of their sensory needs.
Photo – https://www.bcfc.co.uk/city-men-news/city-open-matchday-sensory-room-at-ashton-gate/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
