Gateway Ice Rink made headlines this festive season, with an appearance on the BBC News. The journalist was particularly interested in the Sensory Friendly Sessions on offer. Being the first in the county to offer these specialised session, adaptations such as fewer skaters on the ice, no music and reduced lighting offer the chance for anyone who struggles in busy, loud environments to have just as much fun as everyone else. The rink is also fully wheelchair accessible, with sensory sessions also allowing carers on the ice free of charge.
With around 700,000 people in the UK on the autism spectrum, it’s important to recognise and adapt to their needs. Often sight, sound and touch are interpreted differently and often more intensely then others meaning the simplest of activities can easily become too much, but this shouldn’t result anyone missing out on the same experiences as everyone else.
The BBC visited the site to interview those enjoying the ice during a Sensory Friendly Session, many of whom had nothing but positive things to say. As well as Rob Goves the owner of Gateway Cafe and the Gateway Ice Rink who already conscious of accessibility said “we have to allow everyone to come to our cafe regardless of their needs so why shouldn’t we have the same policy at our ice rink.”
An online article appeared on the BBC website 6th December, followed by a televised piece on the 13th December airing on the Points West regional news.